During pregnancy, many postural changes occur slowly as the fetus grows in size often times leading to varying levels of aches and pains for many women. This can be a frightening time, especially for those who are experiencing their first pregnancy.
Through appropriate physical therapy intervention we are often able to relieve or eliminate pain and dysfunction associated with orthopedic issues during and post pregnancy. Issues may involve spine and rib joint inflammation, muscle spasms, sacroiilitis (pelvic joint inflammation) due to ligamentous laxity of the pelvic girdle, and sciatica.
Treatment may involve massage, neuromuscular exercise re-education to stabilize the pelvic girdle, low-grade joint mobilizations in conjunction with home exercises. Goals of treatment also include functional improvement as well an education for self care. It is such a magical time that should not be overshadowed by unnecessary pain.
