Pre Natal – Post Natal Programmes

Pre Natal – Post Natal Programmes

 PRE – NATAL PHYSIOTHERAPY :

 

A NUMBER OF FACTORS CONTRIBUTE TO MUSCLE AND JOINT PROBLEMS DURING PREGNANCY. THESE INCLUDE:

  • The release of the hormone relaxin from about 10 weeks gestation. This loosens ligaments through the body but especially around the pelvis.
  • An exageration ofthe lumbar iosdosis (curve) to compensate for the change in the bodies centre of gravity.
  • Weakening of the pelvic floor and lower abdominal area due to hormonal changes and muscles stretching.

COMMON COMPLAINTS (WHICH WE CAN TREAT) INCLUDE :

  • Symphysis pubis dysfunction: symptoms may include pain in the pubic bone especially when walking or seperating the legs.
  • Sacrolilliac joint dysfunction: pain around dimple joints at the back of the pelvis, buttocks and down the legs.
  • Lower back pain: pain when walking or standing on one leg.
  • Thoracic spine pain: This may present itself as general tightnedd, pain localised to the rib cage or pain when deep breathing.
  • Knee pain

 PHYSIOTHERAPY TREATMENT :

  • Education regarding posture and back care
  • Exercises to improve muscle control around your pelvis and spine
  • Education of the pevic floor
  • Stretches
  • Safe modalities like TENS for pain relief
  • K taping

POST – NATAL PHYSIOTHERAPY :

WOMEN COMMONLY EXPERIENCE MUSCLE AND JOINT PAIN POSTNATALLY AND THE FOLLOWING ARE CONTRIBUTING FACTORS :

  • Weakness of the lower abdominal and pfm in both vaginal and caesarian deliveries
  • Long periods spent sitting whilst feeding the baby can contribute to tightness in the upper body
  • The presence of the hormone relaxin in the weeks post delivery and whilst breast feeding loosens ligaments which are then more vunerable to spains and strains
  • Unaccustomed lifting and bending over cots, car seats etc.

PROBLEMS ENCOUNTERED :

  • Scar Management
  • Pelvic floor muscle weakness,and stress incontinence
  • Lower back pain
  • Thoracic spine pain
  • Neck and upper shoulder pain and stiffness
  • Sacroiliac joint dysfuntion

 PHYSIOTHERAPY TREATMENT :

  • Advice on back care whilst feeding and lifting your baby
  • Advice on posture
  • Exercises to improve muscle control around the pelvis and spine
  • Mobilizations and stretches for stiff joints and the spine
  • Massage
  • Electrotherapy