Having a newborn is an exciting and transformative time in our lives. We are all probably well aware of the drastic changes that having a baby can have on the body as well. Both childbirth and caring for a newborn baby can result in physical changes that can be a daunting task to manage. Luckily, a trained physical therapist can help guide you through the postpartum recovery process.

Given 9 months of pregnancy and delivery (whether vaginally or via C-section), the body undergoes significant changes which, if unaddressed, can cause further issues in the long run. Common postpartum issues and complaints include low back pain, pelvic pain, tailbone pain, posture issues and neck pain associated with carrying or nursing, core weakness with diastasis rectus, urinary incontinence, ligamentous issues, pelvic organ prolapse, changes in bowel habits, scar tissue immobility from C-section or episiotomy, general weakness, and the list goes on. As you can tell from this long list of potential issues, the postpartum time can be overwhelming, both in caring for yourself and a newborn. Fortunately, our physical therapists at Beacon Physical Therapy can safely and effectively help assist you to achieve your postpartum goals.

At Beacon PT, we value comprehensive and holistic care. For our postpartum patients this includes a thorough evaluation to tailor your treatment to your specific needs. Postpartum physical therapy care can also involve pelvic floor evaluation and treatment. Pelvic floor dysfunction or pain can be common after childbirth given how much pressure and stress is put on this region. Luckily, our pelvic floor physical therapists can train you how to effectively and efficiently utilize your pelvic floor muscles so that your particular dysfunction does not persist. Additionally, pregnancy and the event of delivery leads to changes in the body that can result in aches and pains in various joints. Our physical therapists can also help to address specific musculoskeletal needs through manual therapy, exercises, posture education, and self care techniques. Furthermore, commonly during the later stages of pregnancy the abdominal muscles are stretched out resulting in a widening of the rectus abdominis muscle (the “six-pack” muscle). The abdominal muscles are important for stabilizing the trunk and pelvis, maintaining postural control, and critical for effective respiration. In physical therapy, you will be trained in progressive strengthening of your abdominals and trunk to restore these vital functions.

We also want to recognize that the first week of August is National Breastfeeding Week! Breastfeeding your child is not indicated for every mom, but it can have many benefits. Studies have shown that breast milk supports healthy growth and development and can also protect against gastrointestinal and respiratory infections, allergies, obesity, and endocrine diseases, and it can promote mental health and psychomotor development. It can also reduce your risk of breast and ovarian cancer (Couto et. al. 2020).

Of note, breastfeeding helps to develop the infant’s core musculature for the throat and vocal cords. We have 3 pressure systems in the body: the (1) throat and vocal cords form the upper core, (2) lungs in the thorax form the middle core, and (3) diaphragm, abdominals, and pelvic floor form the lower core. Breastfeeding strengthens infant neck muscles to allow it to hold its head up, and forms the hard palate allowing the tongue to rest on the roof of the mouth to create the upper core system. Proper upper core development can prevent sleep apnea, dysfunctional breathing patterns (mouth breathing), and later stress and allergies. It’s imperative to have all 3 core systems working as your child grows into adolescence and adulthood. If one core system isn’t working properly, it will affect the other two with negative consequences later in life.

With all of these benefits associated with breastfeeding, we note that for some moms, breastfeeding can be difficult, come with hormonal changes that are challenging, and for many, can be full of stigma and societal expectations. Your journey is a personal one, and it is important to consult with your personal care team, and to honor your biological and psychological needs. At Beacon PT, we are committed to you feeling empowered in your body after the life changing event of having a child. We are here to support your specific needs along your journey.