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