PHYSICAL THERAPY FOR PREGNANT & POST-PARTUM WOMEN:
By Kristin M. Nethercott, PT

Women undergo numerous changes during pregnancy, many of which can have long lasting effects after childbirth. Many problemsthat arise during pregnancy are a direct result of anatomic changes such as ligamentous laxity caused by changes in hormone levels.

These changes can result in:
L ow back pain
Joint pain
Headaches
Tendinitis
Varicosities
Carpal tunnel syndrome
Diastasis recti (separation of the abdominal muscles)

The Physical Therapist is trained in the evaluation and treatment of all types of musculoskeletal issues. Some back and/or pelvic pain occurs in

50% to 71% of all pregnant women.

Pain often persists well into the postpartum period. Physical therapy treatments may include postural correction, patient education for body mechanics and safe exercise, use of supportive devices including lumbar supports, wrist splints and compression hose, myofascial release, joint mobilization, and aquatic exercise. It is extremely important for women to seek treatment for any problems that arise during pregnancy. If any of these impairments are left untreated, the level of discomfort may increase and lead to disability. Additionally, Physical Therapists can provide prevention strategies for urinary incontinence and pelvic organ prolapse.

PHYSICAL THERAPY FOR PREGNANT & POST-PARTUM WOMEN

The cervical spine is made up of bony structures called vertebrae (pink), spongy discs (blue) that lie between each vertebra, nerves (yellow) that exit at each vertebral level and travel the length of the arm and soft tissue including joint capsules, ligaments, muscles and tendons.  These structures support the neck and head to allow freedom of movement but at the same time protect the openings at each level to allow the nerves to exit without impedance.  This is crucial, as nerves supply impulses to muscles that are necessary to enable us to move our arm as well as to provide sensation to the skin.

Musculoskeletal or hormonal problems that begin during pregnancy may continue during the postpartum period. New conditions due to the physical demand of childbirth may also appear. During pregnancy, care of the mother is emphasized, but during the postpartum period, the focus tends to shift to the newborn. Many women tend to overlook these stresses or to postpone their own body’s needs. Bending to lift a newborn infant, carrying baby equipment, and breastfeeding all place mechanical stress on the back, which increases the chance of injury. Studies show that the majority of this pain improves, but some women continue to have chronic or repetitive episodes of back pain for up to 10 years later. Common areas that need to be addressed during the postpartum period include arch support for the feet, diastasis recti, pelvic alignment, and strengthening of thoracic spine, pelvic floor, and abdominal muscles.

A consultation with a licensed physical therapist is the first step to safe, effective exercises for your pregnancy and postpartum care. A licensed physical therapist can help you manage and even prevent injury whether you are early in your pregnancy, due in a few weeks, or have a newborn at home. We can help if you are having pain or dysfunction, would like information about exercise classes, or have questions about what exercises are best for you.

About Kristin:
Kristin Nethercott, PT, is a licensed physical therapist with 13 years of clinical experience with a special interest in the needs of the pregnant/post-partum women. Kristin specializes in the care of these women for treatment of carpel tunnel syndrome, thoracic outlet syndrome, rib pain, diastasis recti, and ostitis pubis as well as sacroiliac, foot, and low back pain. She is the mother of three children.
Please call us at (315) 637-4747