Pregnancy and Postpartum
Pregnancy is an exciting time, but it also brings many physical changes. Increased load on the pelvic floor, ligament stretching, and thickening can lead to discomfort. These changes may cause back pain, pelvic floor issues, muscle fatigue, urinary incontinence, and difficulty engaging core muscles. Pregnant women may also experience neck and upper back pain, sciatica, and even carpal tunnel. Some of these conditions can continue with you during your journey postpartum.
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At our Bronxville, NY and Mamaroneck, NY physical therapy offices, we aim to prepare your body for the journey ahead so you can focus on welcoming your new baby.
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If you’re expecting or recently gave birth, contact Prime Physio Physical Therapy! We’re here to make your pregnancy, delivery, and postpartum recovery as smooth as possible.
During and after pregnancy, women may experience several common pain symptoms due to the physical changes their bodies undergo.
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During Pregnancy:
Lower Back Pain:
Caused by the growing belly, shifts in posture, and hormonal changes that loosen ligaments.
Pelvic Pain:
Often due to the increased pressure on the pelvic floor muscles and ligaments, leading to discomfort or pain in the pelvis.
Round Ligament Pain:
Sharp pain or discomfort in the lower belly or groin area due to the stretching of ligaments supporting the uterus.
Sciatica:
Pressure from the growing baby on the sciatic nerve can lead to sharp or radiating pain down the legs and lower back.
Hip Pain:
The loosening of joints and ligaments can cause pain in the hips, especially when sleeping or walking.
Neck and Upper Back Pain:
Postural changes and increased breast size can cause strain on the neck and upper back muscles.
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome:
Swelling during pregnancy can compress the median nerve in the wrist, leading to numbness, tingling, or pain in the hands.
Leg Cramps:
Common during pregnancy, often caused by changes in circulation and pressure on blood vessels.
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After Pregnancy (Postpartum):
Pelvic Floor Pain:
Weakness or trauma to the pelvic floor muscles during childbirth can result in pain and discomfort postpartum.
Lower Back Pain:
Continuing back pain may result from weakened abdominal muscles, lifting the baby, or poor posture during breastfeeding.
Perineal Pain:
Vaginal delivery can lead to soreness or pain in the perineal area, especially if there were tears or an episiotomy.
Abdominal Pain (Diastasis Recti):
Separation of the abdominal muscles during pregnancy can lead to postpartum abdominal discomfort or a feeling of weakness in the core.
C-Section Pain:
Women who have undergone a cesarean section may experience pain around the incision site as it heals.
Breast Pain:
Engorgement, mastitis, or difficulty with breastfeeding can cause breast tenderness or pain.
Hip and Joint Pain:
Hormones that loosen joints during pregnancy may continue to cause joint instability and discomfort after birth.
Tailbone Pain:
Pressure during labor can bruise or strain the coccyx (tailbone), leading to pain when sitting or moving.
Physical therapy can play a crucial role in both pre and postpartum care by addressing the physical challenges and changes women experience during pregnancy and after childbirth. At Prime Physio Physical Therapy, we will focus on:
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Prenatal Physical Therapy (During Pregnancy):
Alleviating Back and Pelvic Pain
Strengthening Pelvic Floor Muscles
Improving Mobility and Reducing Discomfort
Sciatica and Nerve Pain Relief
Education on Safe Movement and Exercise
Breathing and Labor Preparation
Postpartum Physical Therapy (After Childbirth):
Pelvic Floor Rehabilitation
Diastasis Recti Recovery
Scar Tissue Mobilization (C-Section Recovery)
Posture and Body Mechanics
Addressing Postpartum Back and Joint Pain
Breastfeeding and Upper Body Support
Safe Return to Exercise
Emotional and Mental Support
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Scar tissue mobility is particularly important after a C-section, as it directly impacts recovery, function, and overall comfort. When the body heals from a C-section or any major surgery, scar tissue forms as part of the natural healing process. However, if the scar tissue is not mobilized properly, it can lead to adhesions, limited movement, back pain, and long-term discomfort. Our Bronxville, NY and Mamaroneck, NY physical therapy practice utilizes unique strategies of myofascial release to remove these constraints and avoid further compromise of the myofascial system, so your c-section scar does not interfere with your daily life.
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Whether it's prenatal physical therapy, postpartum physical therapy, or both, Prime Physio Physical Therapy in Bronxville, NY and Mamaroneck, NY has got you covered.