Last updated on August 14, 2023 by Lori Pace
Pregnancy and birth are extraordinary and deeply satisfying stages of a mother’s journey. However, this period can also bring considerable physical challenges.
In addition to the joys of sleepless nights raising a newborn, many women struggle with one or more musculoskeletal issues that arise from pregnancy and childbirth.
At the heart of the recovery process is postpartum physical therapy, an essential component of care that can significantly aid recovery and restore strength and function.
This article takes an in-depth look at the importance of postpartum physical therapy and provides guidance on the best time to initiate this critical healing process.
early postpartum period
The period after childbirth is often called the postpartum period and is a critical period for the mother’s health and the health of her newborn. Significant physical changes occur during this period from pregnancy to postpartum.
While the urge to start physical therapy right away may be strong, experts generally recommend prioritizing rest and recovery in the first few weeks postpartum.
Childbirth, whether vaginal or C-section, causes physical stress on the pelvic floor muscles, abdominal muscles and surrounding tissues. The body needs time to heal and regain strength before engaging in strenuous physical activity.
During this phase, gentle movement, deep breathing exercises, and light stretching can be gradually added under the guidance of a medical professional.
Miracle Rehab offers one of the best physical therapies in Michigan for new moms living near Southfield, MI: https://www.miraclerehabclinic.com/southfield
The role of postpartum physical therapy
Postpartum physical therapy is a unique area of rehabilitation that is carefully tailored to meet the specific requirements of women who have recently experienced childbirth. It is designed to promote recovery of muscles, joints and tissues that undergo major transformations during pregnancy and childbirth.
Core goals of postpartum physical therapy include the following:
- Restore pelvic floor health: Pelvic floor muscles are vital in supporting the pelvic organs and ensuring continence. The stress of pregnancy and childbirth can weaken these muscles, causing problems such as urinary incontinence. Postpartum physical therapy, which includes exercises to strengthen and restore the pelvic floor, can help prevent or reduce such problems.
- Abdominal muscle rehabilitation: The abdominal muscles, especially the rectus abdominis, may separate during pregnancy, a condition called diastasis recti. Physical therapy can guide you through exercises that promote healing and bring the abdominal muscles back together, thus closing the gap and improving core strength.
- Pain relief: Pregnancy and childbirth can cause a variety of aches and pains, such as back pain, sciatica, and joint discomfort. Physical therapists use targeted techniques to reduce pain and improve overall comfort.
- Restore mobility and flexibility: Ligaments and joints become more pliable during pregnancy due to hormonal changes. After delivery, it takes time for these ligaments and joints to stabilize. Physical therapy helps restore proper joint alignment, range of motion, and flexibility.
- Scar tissue management: In a C-section or perineal tear, scar tissue may form and may cause discomfort. Physical therapists can use techniques to minimize scar tissue adhesion and improve tissue mobility.
When to start postpartum physical therapy
The timing of when to start postpartum physical therapy will vary based on individual circumstances. Before starting any postpartum exercise or treatment regimen, talk to your obstetrician, midwife, or health care provider. They can evaluate your situation and recommend the ideal time to start physical therapy.
However, there are some general guidelines to help you determine when it is appropriate to start:
- Early postpartum period (0-6 weeks): Your body is recovering from the process of giving birth shortly after giving birth. Light exercise and gentle stretching are possible, but it is crucial to prioritize rest and recovery during the first few weeks.
- 6-8 weeks postpartum: Around 6 to 8 weeks, most women will have a postpartum checkup. During this appointment, your healthcare provider can evaluate your rehabilitation progress and recommend starting physical therapy.
- Over 8 weeks: For women who have had an uncomplicated vaginal delivery, physical therapy can usually begin around 8 to 12 weeks postpartum. If you had a C-section or had complications during delivery, your healthcare provider may recommend waiting longer.
Postpartum physical therapy is valuable in promoting healing, restoring strength, and addressing underlying issues that may arise after pregnancy and childbirth.
Although the exact time to begin physical therapy may vary, contact with your health care professional is still critical, focusing on your overall health during this time of transition.
By seeking appropriate counseling and help, you can be on a path to postpartum recovery that enhances physical vitality and emotional balance.
