POSTPARTUM THERAPY
The first 3 months after welcoming a new baby into the family is called “The Fourth Trimester”. During pregnancy and postpartum women face physical, hormonal and emotional changes that can place a great deal of stress on the musculoskeletal system. During the postpartum period, the physical changes we went through during pregnancy, our delivery experience, lack of sleep and the emotional and physical demands of caring for a newborn can cause joint, muscle and nerve strain adding pain to the mix of adjusting to everyday life with a newborn. Historically, the focus of follow up care after birth has been placed on the newborn baby with little focus on the recovering mother. At 6 weeks postpartum we are expected to go back to life as normal. Back to work, sex, exercise - often this feels overwhelming and almost impossible!
The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) recognizes the role of Physical Therapy in a woman's recovery from childbirth and recommends earlier as well as ongoing postpartum care.
Natalie Graham, PT
Natalie has worked in acute care, skilled care, rehabilitation and outpatient clinics treating orthopedic and pelvic conditions. She has provided instruction for pelvic floor credentialing classes through the APTA. Her diverse experience serves as a basis for developing superior personalized treatment.
We understand the importance of postpartum care and helping women recover from childbirth.
Natalie and Susan are here to help you with ongoing postpartum care!
Marie Long, PT, COMT, ASTYM
Marie provides complete patient care through development of individualized plans integrating education, self-care techniques, home programs, and specialized manual therapy. Areas of interest include a variety of musculoskeletal dysfunctions including acute and chronic spinal pain, headaches, upper cervical pain, and the extremities.
What to Expect When Coming to Connect PT for Pelvic Wellness
Our goal is to provide you with a treatment plan that takes into account your needs and lifestyle while empowering you to return to health and activity.
Physical Therapy can assist with these common postpartum conditions:
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Loss of urinary and/ or bowel control
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Abdominal muscle separation / Diastasis Rectus Abdominus (DRA)
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Neck, mid or low back pain and other musculoskeletal issues
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Pelvic pain or pressure
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Sexual pain / dysfunction
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C-section or perineal scar pain / sensitivity
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Breast engorgement / mastitis
Our role as physical therapists is to evaluate where you are in your recovery process and support and guide you in your goals.
Your PT program will reflect your specific needs and will often include:
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Pelvic floor and core muscle training
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Exercises and movement pattern recommendations to address abdominal muscle separation
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Rehabilitative ultrasound imaging (RUSI) for feedback in retraining weak abdominal and pelvic floor muscles
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Preparation for return to sex, exercise, work, and other activities
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Posture and body mechanics recommendations for activities of daily living and babycare
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Scar tissue care, mobilization, and desensitization
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Bladder and/ or Bowel management and training
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If breastfeeding, ultrasound treatment for painful breast engorgement or mastitis