Pregnancy and postpartum are filled with anticipation, joy, and inevitable physical changes. As the body transforms to accommodate and nurture a new life, many women experience discomforts and daily challenges. At Breakthru Physical Therapy + Fitness in Washington Township, NJ, we understand the unique needs of expecting and new mothers and offer tailored physical therapy interventions to ensure a smoother journey during this pivotal time.
Pregnancy: Optimizing Maternal Wellness and Preparation
Physical therapy offers techniques and guidance tailored specifically to the needs of expecting mothers. From alleviating pregnancy-related pain to preparing for labor, here’s how physical therapy can pave the way for a more comfortable and confident pregnancy journey:
- Alleviating Common Pains and Discomforts: As the baby grows, mothers often struggle with back pain, pelvic discomfort, and sciatica. Physical therapy offers therapeutic exercises and manual techniques to relieve these aches, ensuring a more comfortable pregnancy.
- Strengthening Core Muscles: Women can prepare their abdominal and pelvic floor muscles with the right exercises. This not only aids during the delivery process but also reduces the risk of incontinence and prolapse.
- Posture and Ergonomics: Pregnancy alters the body’s center of gravity. Your physical therapist will guide you on maintaining proper posture and ergonomics, preventing musculoskeletal strains.
- Breathing Techniques: Breath is a powerful tool during labor. Physical therapists can teach pregnant women effective breathing patterns to ease delivery.
- Preparation for Labor: Through targeted exercises and stretches, physical therapy can help prepare the body for a smoother labor and delivery.
Postpartum: The Rehabilitation Phase
The period following childbirth, known as the postpartum phase, presents its own set of unique challenges as a woman’s body begins its recovery process. Breakthru Physical Therapy can be a support system during this time, offering specialized treatments tailored to the needs of new mothers, including:
- Pelvic Floor Rehabilitation: Childbirth can strain or damage the pelvic floor muscles. Physical therapists help restore strength and function to these muscles through specific exercises, mitigating complications like incontinence.
- Diastasis Recti Treatment: Some women develop a separation of the abdominal muscles during pregnancy, known as diastasis recti. Physical therapy offers techniques to realign and strengthen these muscles post-delivery.
- Post-C-Section Recovery: Physical therapy can help with scar tissue mobilization, reducing pain and improving mobility for those who undergo cesarean deliveries.
- Restoring Postural Balance: New mothers often experience posture-related challenges after delivery due to activities like breastfeeding or carrying the baby. Physical therapists provide strategies to minimize strain and maintain spinal health.
- Guided Return to Exercise: Many women are eager to return to their fitness routines after giving birth. Physical therapists can drive this transition, ensuring it’s done safely and effectively.
The Breakthru PT Approach
At Breakthru Physical Therapy, we understand that every pregnancy and postpartum journey is unique. Grounded in personalized care, we begin with an in-depth assessment to tailor our evidence-based methodologies to each mother’s needs. Collaborating closely with obstetricians, midwives, and lactation consultants ensures holistic maternal health care, and Breakthru physical therapists guide and support mothers through this transformative journey with empathy.
Let’s Work Together!
We are committed to walking alongside expectant and new mothers to promote comfort, confidence, and care during this pivotal phase of life. Whether you’re an expecting mother looking to relieve pregnancy-related discomforts or a new mom ready to regain your strength in Washington Township, NJ, Breakthru Physical Therapy + Fitness is here to support and guide you every step of the way with exceptional physical therapy. Please call 856.227.1440 or complete the appointment request form online.
