Physical Therapy in Obstetrics
"From the moment of conception, pregnancy profoundly alters a woman’s physiology. Every system in her body changes during the childbearing year to provide for the diverse needs of fetal growth and development, meet the metabolic demands of pregnancy, and protect her normal physiologic functioning. By considering these changes, the physical therapist can carefully implement a therapeutic exercise program that is safe for mother and fetus." - From Therapeutic Exercise: Moving Toward Function by Carrie M. Hall and Lori Thein Brody
Some common conditions treated in physical therapy during pregnancy or postpartum:
- Neck, upper back and/or low back pain
- Knee pain
- Ankle/foot pain
- Pelvic and/or hip pain
- Wrist pain/carpal tunnel syndrome
- Urinary incontinence
Most insurance companies cover these musculoskeletal conditions. Since the pregnancy is 40 weeks in duration, some women are seen in physical therapy and set up on a home program to decrease and manage their pain, following up in therapy only when needed. Others need to be seen on a more frequent basis to get their symptoms under control and then follow up only if needed for the duration of the pregnancy. Our physical therapist will determine what your individual needs are and discuss the options with you.
Physical therapy interventions can include hands on treatment, massage, modalities, aquatics, posture and body mechanics education and therapeutic exercise.
Keep in mind that while it is not unusual to experience some musculoskeletal pain during pregnancy and in the postpartum period, you do not need to "suffer through" and accept is as part of being a Mom. Northern Michigan Sports Medicine Center is committed to helping you through the childbearing years in the best shape as possible!