New Delhi: The birth of a baby is the most magical and beautiful time for parents. This happiness comes along with various physical and mental changes in a mother’s body. Therefore it is important not only for the mother’s health but also for the happiness of both the new mother and the newborn and this stage can be supported by a good physiotherapist. It can help the mother with postpartum issues, and pain, and may also help them get back in shape.
Shruti Digdhe, Head of Department & KAM Pro Physio Integrated Rehabilitation Center, Rainbow Children’s Hospital shared with News9, “After giving birth, engaging in postnatal physiotherapy is crucial for new mothers. This series of exercises focuses on strengthening the muscles that have been stretched during pregnancy and childbirth. It aids in preventing back pain, improving posture, and accelerating the return to your pre-pregnancy shape. Additionally, it enhances circulation and supports better breathing.”
Postnatal Physiotherapy
Before beginning any postnatal exercise routine, consult your doctor or midwife. It is generally recommended that you wait until your 6-week postpartum check-up before starting group fitness classes, returning to the gym, or engaging in personal training. Individual characteristics and any postnatal issues you may have had will determine your readiness for exercise.
Physiotherapy advice for pelvic floor
According to Digdhe, “After pregnancy, physiotherapy plays a crucial role in restoring pelvic floor function and addressing any related dysfunction. A targeted post-natal physiotherapy program focuses on strengthening and rehabilitating the pelvic floor muscles, which may have been stretched or weakened during pregnancy and childbirth. This often involves a combination of pelvic floor exercises wherein we work to enhance muscle tone and control, and specialised techniques like electrical stimulation to promote muscle recovery. Additionally, physiotherapists may guide proper body mechanics and posture to support pelvic stability, bladder compliance and proprioception for incontinence. By engaging in these tailored exercises and therapies, new mothers can effectively address issues like urinary incontinence, pelvic organ prolapse, and lower back pain, ultimately supporting their overall recovery and well-being.”
Physiotherapy and abdominal care post-pregnancy
Pregnancy causes the abdominal muscles to stretch, notably the rectus abdominis and linea Alba, reducing their contraction strength and efficiency. This stretching can cause diastasis recti, a separation of the abdominal muscles that disrupt their continuity and may cause lower back discomfort due to decreased pelvic and lumbar spine stabilisation. Postnatal physiotherapy addresses these difficulties by emphasizing core strengthening and stabilization exercises. It helps to correct diastasis recti, increases abdominal tone, and prevents subsequent issues by restoring muscular function and core stability, thus promoting overall healing after pregnancy.
How does postnatal physiotherapy help to recover after a C-section?
Postnatal physiotherapy is crucial for recovery after a C-section, promoting both physical healing and functional restoration. It focuses on gently strengthening the abdominal muscles and surrounding tissues, improving posture, and enhancing core stability without straining the incision site. This approach includes guided breathing exercises, pelvic floor rehabilitation, and scar tissue mobilization to reduce pain, prevent complications, and speed up the healing process. Additionally, physiotherapists offer guidance on proper body mechanics, helping new mothers avoid injury and transition more smoothly to physical wellness after a C-section.
Pregnancy causes the abdominal muscles to stretch, notably the rectus abdominis and linea Alba, reducing their contraction strength and efficiency. This stretching can cause diastasis recti, a separation of the abdominal muscles that disrupt their continuity and may cause lower back discomfort due to decreased pelvic and lumbar spine stabilisation Health Conditions Health News: Latest News from Health Care, Mental Health, Weight Loss, Disease, Nutrition, Healthcare
