If you are experiencing pain and discomfort after childbirth, please know that you are not alone and that physical therapy may be able to help you. According to The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, “Untreated pain after pregnancy is associated with postpartum depression and the development of persistent pain.”

There are many complications that can happen after pregnancy and childbirth, and it’s always a good idea to know what options are available for postpartum recovery. Postpartum physical therapy can help you identify any existing impairments and help restore muscle integrity and prevent future complications resulting from postpartum pregnancy that can otherwise lead to dysfunction and pain.

Typical treatments from your postpartum physical therapist may include:

• Education about the necessary functions of our pelvic floor

• Biofeedback for Pelvic floor coordination

• Manual techniques to address tight and tender muscular restrictions

• Exercises tailored to your condition, including pelvic floor strengthening and relaxation exercises, core and spinal stability exercises, hip strengthening, mobility, and progressive loading to return you back to your desired level of activity

• Behavioral modification techniques to help you manage urge incontinence, interstitial cystitis, endometriosis, etc.,  including discussions regarding contributing factors like diet, fluid intake, overall nutrition, and voiding habits

• Diaphragmatic breathing and general relaxation techniques to reduce tension in the pelvic floor and allow for optimal muscle function

PLEASE NOTE: Everyone is different, and a physical therapist will provide you with a customized treatment plan to help your postpartum related symptoms and issues, based off your specific health needs.

How Can Postpartum Physical Therapy Help?

Taking time to take care of yourself after pregnancy is important. Postpartum physical therapy can help new moms through a variety of ways including restoring muscle function, restoring strength, and reducing the dependency of pain medications / opioids. Physical therapy can also help new mothers alleviate pain associated with postpartum pregnancy symptoms such as lower back pain, knee pain, pelvic pain, and hip pain.