Pregnancy physical therapy can alleviate discomforts and improve your overall well-being. At Centennial Sports & Physical Therapy in Spokane Valley, we get it. Pregnancy is a beautiful and transformative journey that significantly changes a woman’s body. As your body adapts to the growth of your little one, you may experience aches, pains, and discomfort. This is where prenatal PT can be a lifesaver.
Understanding The Changes In Your Body
Pregnancy is a period of incredible change, both emotionally and physically. As your body accommodates your baby’s growth, you may experience various changes that can feel uncomfortable or make living your everyday life difficult.
- Weight Gain: As your baby grows, your body naturally gains weight, which can put added stress on your muscles and joints.
- Posture Alterations: Your center of gravity shifts as your belly grows, leading to changes in posture that can strain muscles and cause pain.
- Hormonal Changes: Hormones like relaxin are released during pregnancy to prepare your body for childbirth. However, these hormones can also loosen ligaments and affect joint stability.
- Pressure On Organs: As your uterus expands, it can pressure nearby organs, leading to discomfort and even pain.
- Back Pain: Many expectant mothers experience back pain due to the added weight and changes in posture.
Bye, Bye Aches & Pains – Prenatal Physical Therapy
Physical therapy during pregnancy offers numerous advantages. It is a safe and effective way to address pregnancy-related aches, pains, and conditions. A personalized PT plan can have you saying goodbye to discomfort and hello to the activities you love again.
- Pain Management: Prenatal PT can alleviate back pain, pelvic pain, and joint discomfort, helping you move more comfortably.
- Improved Mobility: Your PT can provide exercises and stretches that enhance your flexibility and range of motion.
- Pelvic Floor Strengthening: Prenatal PT can help you strengthen your pelvic floor muscles, reducing the risk of incontinence and providing support during childbirth.
- Postural Guidance: Physical therapists offer guidance on maintaining proper posture to minimize strain on your muscles and joints.
- Core Strengthening: Strengthening your core can help you better support your growing belly and alleviate back pain.
- Individualized Care: Physical therapists create tailored treatment plans based on your unique needs and pregnancy-related issues.
Physical Therapy Treats Common Conditions During Pregnancy
Your mom went through it. Your best friend had that. Just because it’s common doesn’t mean it has to be a part of your pregnancy story. Prenatal physical therapy can effectively treat various pregnancy-related conditions.
- Low Back Pain: Exercises can help reduce the discomfort associated with lower back pain.
- Pelvic Girdle Pain: Therapy can alleviate pain in the pelvic region, allowing for improved mobility.
- Sciatica: Physical therapists can provide stretches and exercises to relieve the pain associated with sciatica.
- Symphysis Pubis Dysfunction (SPD): SPD can be managed through physical therapy to reduce discomfort and improve daily function.
- Diastasis Recti: Therapy can help strengthen abdominal muscles to address this common issue.
When Should You Start Prenatal Physical Therapy?
You can begin prenatal PT at any stage of your pregnancy. Whether you’re in your first trimester or approaching your due date, a skilled therapist can tailor a treatment plan to suit your needs. However, it’s essential to consult with your healthcare provider before starting any new exercise or therapy regimen.
Why Is PT Important During Pregnancy?
Pain Relief: It relieves the discomfort and pain associated with pregnancy.
Preparation For Labor: Physical therapy can prepare your body for labor and childbirth by strengthening the necessary muscles.
Enhanced Well-Being: It contributes to overall well-being by improving mobility, reducing pain, and supporting emotional health.
Postpartum Recovery: Prenatal PT can ease the postpartum recovery process, helping you regain strength and function after childbirth.
Common Physical Therapy Treatments During Pregnancy
Your therapist will take into account any existing health or mobility issues. Together, you will create a personalized treatment plan to accommodate your abilities, unique pregnancy, lifestyle, and therapy goals.
- Strengthening Exercises: Exercises to strengthen your core and pelvic floor muscles.
- Stretching Routines: Stretches to improve flexibility and alleviate muscle tension.
- Manual Therapy: Hands-on techniques a therapist performs to address specific issues.
- Postural Education: Guidance on maintaining proper posture and body mechanics.
- Breathing Techniques: Techniques to improve breathing and reduce tension.
What Do The Experts Say – Is PT Safe?
Prominent organizations like the American Physical Therapy Association, the American Academy of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, the American Pregnancy Association, and the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists all acknowledge the benefits of physical therapy during pregnancy. They recommend prenatal PT as a safe and effective approach to managing pregnancy-related discomfort and pain.
Make Pregnancy More Comfortable – Physical Therapy In Spokane
Schedule an appointment with Centennial Sports & Physical Therapy in Spokane Valley, WA, today for quality pregnancy physical therapy. Our experienced and caring team will provide the guidance and treatment you need to navigate pregnancy aches and pains comfortably and confidently. Embrace the benefits of prenatal physical therapy and enjoy a healthier, more comfortable pregnancy journey.
