|
|
PHYSICAL THERAPY FOR WOMEN'S AND MEN'S HEALTH The Childbearing Year |
| Evaluation and management of problems common to pregnant and post-partum women | How is "the childbearing year" defined? It begins at the time of conception - the start of hormonal changes in a woman's body. And it continues until sometime after the child stops nursing, when the woman's hormonal levels return to their pre-pregnant state. So, depending on how long the nursing relationship continues, "the childbearing year" can actually last for several years. | Why are musculoskeletal problems so common during the childbearing year? During pregnancy and nursing, a woman undergoes significant postural stresses as well as physical and hormonal changes that can cause or exacerbate musculoskeletal problems. Even in the first trimester, as her body prepares to grow and stretch to accommodate the growing baby, a woman may feel aches and pains caused by hormonal effects on her joints, ligaments, muscles and tendons. This is especially true if she already has postural stresses from repetitive activities or prolonged positions - or if she has a previously existing weakness or injury. As the pregnancy continues, the normal changes in posture, weight, center of gravity and - for some women - activity level can lead to the onset of spinal or sacroiliac pain, as well as other joint problems.
| How are these problems treated at Olympic Physical Therapy? Our physical therapists are experts in musculoskeletal dysfunction, and have many techniques at their disposal to identify and alleviate the pain you may experience during the childbearing year. Your physical therapist can evaluate and manage low back pain and other common issues, as well as any injuries due to trauma. S/he will teach you to manage the situation through the remainder of your pregnancy and beyond, so you will have the stability and strength to care for your newborn baby. Working together, you'll lay the groundwork for an active and healthy lifestyle, which will enable you to meet the physical challenges of child care. |
|
|
|
