Giving birth is a transformative experience that can bring immense joy and happiness to new mothers. However, it can also be physically challenging and can result in a variety of postpartum physical issues. Postpartum physical therapy is important for mothers to recover and regain strength after delivery. In this blog, we will explore some of the different reasons why you may need postpartum physical therapy. Many dont even think about physical therapy during the recovery process but it is something that can be really beneficial.
Diastasis Recti
Diastasis Recti is a condition that occurs when the abdominal muscles separate during pregnancy. This separation can cause lower back pain, pelvic pain, and difficulty with daily activities. It is usually caused by the stretching that is required from your abdominal wall in order to make room for the growing baby. As your belly grows, your muscles tend to get further and further apart. During the recovery process, your tissue does not snap back to its previous state. Postpartum physical therapy can help women learn exercises that target the abdominal muscles to close the separation and reduce pain.
Pelvic Floor Dysfunction
Pregnancy and childbirth can weaken the pelvic floor muscles, leading to issues such as incontinence, pain during intercourse, and pelvic organ prolapse. This is typically caused by the strain that is put on your pelvic floor. Your pelvic floor is what acts as a hammock to keep your anatomy in your pelvis up, this includes supporting your uterus where the baby is growing. Throughout your pregnancy and birth, your pelvic floor muscles are strained for an extended period of time. Postpartum physical therapy can teach women exercises to strengthen the pelvic floor muscles and improve bladder control.
Breastfeeding-Related Pain
Breastfeeding can lead to discomfort and pain in the neck, back, and shoulders. Due to the demanding nature of breastfeeding, you can find yourself feeding as often as every few hours throughout the day and night. If you are not careful or mindful, it can be easy to hunch over and roll your shoulders forward while breastfeeding. Over time this can cause pain and discomfort in your back, shoulders, and neck. Postpartum physical therapy can teach new mothers how to improve their posture while breastfeeding and alleviate pain.
Back and Neck Pain
Pregnancy and childbirth can cause significant changes in a woman’s posture and put a lot of strain on the back and neck muscles. As your body changes throughout pregnancy, it is common for your body to try and compensate for your stomach growing. For some this means they tuck their pelvis and push it forward to try and support the stomach. Regardless of how your body reacts to your growing body, it may cause pain that can continue into your postpartum period. Postpartum physical therapy can help new mothers improve their posture and alleviate pain.
Bringing a baby into the world is hard work and asks a lot of the woman’s body. That is why it is vital that after pregnancy and birth, you take care of your body to help it heal and recover. Take care of your body, so you can take care of your new addition.
