Reasons to visit a physio in postpartum...
Wrist Discomfort.
Conditions like carpel tunnel, "Mommy's thumb" (De Quervain's tenosynovitis), and decreased nerve mobility commonly arise with increased swelling near the hands during perinatal periods. Once you enter the postpartum phase, there is likely a sudden increase in the frequency of handling a baby and it is often paired with non-optimal body mechanics. This can lead to sensations of numbness and pain in one or both arms.
Diastasis Recti.
100% of pregnant folks will have diastasis recti (also known as diastasis rectus abdominis) by the time they give birth. This change in the abdominal tissues allow the baby to grow and develop within the uterus . Sometimes, diastasis recti may persist beyond the first couple of months of your postpartum journey after having a vaginal or Cesarean birth. A pelvic floor physio can assess for presence of diastasis recti early in postpartum, months down the road, or years later. It is never too late!
Low Back Pain.
Low back discomfort is often reported in the postpartum stage. Aggravating activities may include feeding or cradling baby, exercising, or handling a car seat. Our overall wellbeing also play a large role. It is very important to consider your sleep, diet, energy levels, mood, and support system. These external factors affect our internal nervous system, which binds our psychological and physical bodies, and regulates our pain.
Return to Sport.
Whether you are a recreational or an elite athlete, returning to physical activity after having a baby requires a graded program. Doing too much and too soon can have a negative impact on your postpartum healing and ability to return to physical activity. An orthopaedic and/or a pelvic physiotherapist can get you stronger, faster, and closer to your performance goals, all while optimizing your postpartum rehabilitation.
Pelvic Floor Dysfunction.
Bladder incontinence, perineal pain, pelvic organ prolapse, and weak pelvic floor muscles in postpartum are great reasons to be visiting a pelvic health physiotherapist. Research has shown that if some of these symptoms persist for more than a few months, it is likely to remain present years later. The sooner you are able to connect with your pelvic floor muscles, the better equipped you will be at managing or resolving these symptoms. We recommend you visiting a pelvic floor physiotherapist at 6-8 weeks postpartum.
WANT TO LEARN MORE? Make an appointment with our pelvic health physiotherapist or set up a complimentary discovery call today!
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