Not many women pursue it as an option, but physical therapy services for women that are pregnant can have multiple uses. Pregnancy can cause a woman’s body to change drastically, which is why PT can act as a way for her to maintain her strength while also reducing pain.
Here’s what you need to know about being pregnant and doing PT.
Musculoskeletal Problems During Pregnancy
As the gestational period progresses, your body will change drastically. Your internal organs are compressed because of the baby, which is why you have to pee constantly as the baby grows. Your spine, knees, and shoulders are carrying around a lot more weight. Your feet may also swell as you start to retain water, making it harder to move around.
All of this can cause various conditions. For example, pregnant women are likely to develop nerve compression related conditions. Carpal tunnel and tendonitis are just two examples of these.
They may also experience pelvic and hip pain alongside back pain in their last trimester because of the release of Relaxin that can pull their pelvis and back in different directions. This puts stress on these areas and can cause them pain or soreness.
PT Treatments During Pregnancy
Many expecting mothers think that physical therapy during pregnancy isn’t a good option for them because they may be asked to perform exercises that are too strenuous. Actually, physical therapy techniques are always tailored to the client’s needs.
For example, if you’re experiencing lower back pain and soreness, physical therapists can perform massage therapy as a treatment for musculoskeletal pain. However, you should be prepared for some easy core and strength exercises that your physical therapist will ask you to do to get your body in good shape for the birth.
Don’t worry, no physical therapist will ever push you beyond your limits. In fact, they may recommend walking or yoga as low-intensity exercises rather than pushing you the way they would for stronger individuals.
What Happens After You Give Birth?
When you give birth vaginally, your whole body undergoes a lot of muscle contraction and stress. That’s why you will probably experience pelvic floor pain and weakened core muscles. Discuss physical therapy as an option to regain your strength with your obstetrician and make sure you’re healed enough to do it before you start.
A physical therapist can start you on a regime to strengthen your core muscles and pelvic floor as well as treat you for any musculoskeletal pain that’s still present.
Start working on your core and pain today with our physical therapists in Augusta, GA. We provide dedicated and extensive treatment to you based on your needs and concerns. Schedule an appointment here.
We also offer sports injury rehab, work-related therapy, and programs for active living for seniors.