During pregnancy, a woman's body is undergoing important changes. While these changes support the health and development of her growing baby, they can lead to pain, pressure and misalignment in various areas of the body. Our Stittsville physiotherapists explain how postpartum physiotherapy can help recovery.
A woman's body undergoes several important and momentous changes during pregnancy. As her weight changes, her centre of mass will also shift, putting more pressure on the body's organs.
These changes frequently lead to back, hip or pelvic pain during pregnancy or after delivery. Common health conditions that may arise include:
- Abdominal separation
- Blocked breast ducts
- Increased pelvic misalignment, pain and pressure
- Low back pain
- Weakened abdominal muscles
- Swollen ankles and varicose veins
- Joint pain
- Urinary incontinence
How Postpartum Physiotherapy Can Be Used to Treat Post-Natal Complications
The physiotherapists at our sister location, Nepean Sports Medicine & Physiotherapy Centre, can develop a specific program of pre-natal and postpartum physiotherapy exercises to help soon-to-be-mothers prepare for labour and delivery, make the process healthier and safer, and assist them in healing following delivery.
To begin, your physiotherapist in Nepean will perform a thorough evaluation to assess whether you'll be able to safely take part in an exercise program, and pinpoint the issues contributing to your pain and dysfunction.
Your body's posture, sense of balance, flexibility and physical strength will be observed, in addition to any musculoskeletal issues that may impact your pregnancy.
Whether this is your first or subsequent pregnancy, each pregnancy is different. The same is true for every delivery and recovery process.
The primary purpose of a postpartum physiotherapy program is to safely and progressively help the body return to its pre-pregnancy and/or delivery function. As you navigate your new parental role, our Nepean physiotherapists are here to help guide you through your unique pregnancy and post-pregnancy experience with physiotherapy treatment options.
For those experiencing back and pelvic dysfunction, an active core strengthening program can help you recover the strength you'll need to meet the multiple demands new moms take on. Your program may include specific exercises to strengthen the pelvic floor muscle.
You'll also learn how to use posture, positioning, pelvic floor supports or taping to alleviate pain and discomfort. Other treatments may include massage, joint mobilization exercises, stretches, acupuncture, heat and myofascial release.
Postpartum Physiotherapy
Your physiotherapist can help you work on your fitness and feel like yourself again after giving birth. If you are pregnant or are experiencing postpartum health issues, postpartum physiotherapy can help you recover.