With pregnancy, the body experiences many changes, including postural adjustments, increased load on the pelvic floor, and stretching and thickening of the ligaments. Changes such as these can cause back pain and pelvic floor issues. Muscle weakness may also lead to urinary incontinence and difficulty activating core muscles. Though these are some of the more unpleasant parts of pregnancy, prenatal and postnatal treatments can help your body better prepare for the journey ahead. At Albatross PT and Wellness, we integrate techniques such as massage therapy and pelvic floor therapy to help make your pregnancy and delivery process as smooth as possible.
During the delivery process, you may need to undergo a procedure that might result in a scar, such as a c-section or an episiotomy. These can cause restrictions in the myofascial system of the body. Our Wheaton or Naperville, IL physical therapy practice uses specific myofascial and scar-release techniques to eliminate these restrictions and prevent your myofascial system from being further compromised.
Some women might also suffer from diastasis recti, also known as abdominal separation. Diastasis recti can interfere with the strengthening of the abdomen muscles and cause the belly to “pooch.” Our therapists use the latest evidence-based clinical knowledge in the field to identify and treat this condition.
Albatross PT and Wellness can help mothers deal with pre- and post-natal pains as their bodies experience the effects of pregnancy and childbirth. Our Wheaton or Naperville, IL physical therapists will also help in addressing any problems that may arise during this time.
Therapy for prenatal and postpartum pain
There are many reasons why you may experience prenatal or postpartum pain, especially in the pelvis and back regions. Some common causes of pain are as follows:
Changes in posture
When you’re pregnant, your center of gravity changes. To compensate for this, most women will adjust their posture and how they move, sometimes without even realizing they are doing so.
Changes in hormones
During pregnancy, your body releases a hormone known as “relaxin.” This increases joint laxity (looseness) in the pelvic area. This is your body’s natural way of preparing for birth; however, this hormone causes ligaments in the spine to loosen, resulting in less stability and more risk for the pain to ensue.
Increased weight
Women typically gain 25-35 pounds during pregnancy. This puts extra stress on the spine, and the growing baby in your uterus also puts extra pressure on the nerves and blood vessels surrounding your back and pelvis.
Separation of muscles
As your stomach continues to expand throughout your pregnancy, extreme stress is put on your abdominal muscles. With continued expansion, these muscles can separate along the center, in a condition known as “diastasis recti.” This may cause a muscle imbalance that places more stress on the spine, which may result in back pain.
Our pelvic floor specialists offer both pre- and postnatal treatments for pregnancy-related pain relief. At your initial appointment, you will be greeted by one of our experienced and dedicated physical therapists. They will perform a physical evaluation to assess the nature of your symptoms.
Your medical history and any health risks will also be discussed and considered before creating a treatment plan. After your evaluation, your physical therapist will put together an individualized program for you aimed at providing relief of pelvic pain, and allowing for a smooth pregnancy and/or recovery from childbirth.
Treatment plans typically involve gentle therapeutic exercises, stretches, and manual therapy. These are all done to relieve pain, strengthen your core muscles, and improve posture. Your physical therapist may also suggest additional methods, such as massage therapies, to provide other relief and optimum function as deemed necessary.
Expecting and new mothers unite!
Contact Albatross PT and Wellness today if you’re experiencing pre-or postnatal pain or pelvic discomfort. Our therapists utilize the most advanced techniques for providing our patients with the relief they’ve been seeking for so long. We’re here to provide you with the assistance you need; call today to schedule an appointment.