Pregnancy

Women can have different aches and pains due to hormonal changes, ligamentous laxity, and postural stresses during pregnancy and postpartum. As the baby grows, the women’s body has to continually adjust to compensate for the weight of the enlarged abdomen and breasts. Sometimes the strain on the ligaments and tendons can be quite painful. Leg and arm swelling can contribute to painful feet and hands.

PHYSICAL THERAPY INTERVENTION

Your problems can be evaluated and an individualized program can be developed to help you manage your symptoms.

• Fitting of support belts to lift the belly and to add compression through the pelvis.
  
• Exercises to strengthen over-used or weakened muscles.
  
• Massage to relieve pain and increase circulation.
  
• Fitting for compression stockings for varicose veins in the legs and/or labia.
  
• Carpal tunnel splints.
  
• Suggestions for positions to improve sleeping comfort.
  
• Education and proper body mechanics at work and home.
  
• Physical therapy can help during bed rest for high risk pregnancy with appropriate positioning, gentle movements to reduce chance of
  blood clots and relaxation techniques to address stress.
  

POSTPARTUM PHYSICAL THERAPY

Physical therapy can help during the postpartum period by:

• Rehabilitating stretched muscles.
• Addressing problematic scars.
• Teaching how to care for your baby with reduced strain on your body.
• Retraining muscles injured during a traumatic delivery.