The Necessity of Postpartum Rehabilitation and the Role of Chiropractic Care
The Necessity of Postpartum Rehabilitation and the Role of Chiropractic Care
Pregnancy is a miraculous event, a beautiful transition from one phase of life to another. While it often culminates in the joy of welcoming a new life, it’s also a strenuous journey, putting significant stress on a woman's body. As much as we celebrate the birth of a child, we should also celebrate and focus on the mother's recovery process, recognizing the crucial importance of postpartum rehabilitation.
Little known facts:
diastasis recti occurs in all women and 50% of women will experience symptoms from it.
nearly 50% of women experience uterine prolapse after pregnancy, most just won’t notice because it is internal.
The Postpartum Period – An Underrated Phase
Many women believe that once they deliver their baby, their bodies will instantly bounce back to their pre-pregnancy state. This misconception can lead to feelings of disappointment when the reality sets in, making it even more vital to prioritize postpartum rehab.
Postpartum recovery goes beyond losing baby weight. It encompasses healing from childbirth, readjusting to non-pregnant life, and dealing with physical changes that childbirth can leave behind, such as abdominal separation (diastasis recti), urinary incontinence, and pelvic floor dysfunction.
While the six-week postpartum check-up traditionally marks the "end" of recovery, experts increasingly argue that women need more time to fully recover — physically and emotionally — from pregnancy and childbirth. This is where postpartum rehab comes into play.
Did you know the postpartum period can technically be defined as the period after birth up to 7 years postpartum! 7!
The Importance of Postpartum Rehab
Postpartum rehab is all about helping a woman’s body heal and regain its strength following childbirth. This often includes a variety of approaches, such as physical therapy, exercise programs, and chiropractic treatments. With proper postpartum rehab, mothers can reduce their risk of long-term health complications, improve their physical fitness, and regain confidence in their bodies. We are lucky to be able to offer these approaches in our office!
In many cultures, postpartum care, often known as "confinement," is a traditional practice where new mothers rest and recuperate for 30 to 40 days. They are supported by caregivers who assist with childcare, cooking, and housekeeping, enabling the mother to focus on healing and bonding with the baby. This practice recognizes that a woman's body needs time and care to recover, aligning with the modern understanding of postpartum rehab. Although we do have maternity leave in the US, we struggle to place emphasis on the support aspect and often allow women to find their way on their own. With this lack of support we were compelled to lead the way and put our emphasis on working with mothers postpartum.
The Role of Chiropractic Care in Postpartum Rehab
One underestimated player in the realm of postpartum rehab is chiropractic care. Given that pregnancy and childbirth involve major changes to a woman's body, it should be no surprise that adjustments can be necessary after birth.
Addressing Musculoskeletal Issues
The body undergoes significant musculoskeletal changes during pregnancy, which can persist postpartum. For instance, a forward shifting center of gravity can alter the spine’s normal curvature, leading to postural changes and discomfort. Chiropractors are experts in musculoskeletal health and can help correct these changes through spinal adjustments, reducing discomfort and promoting optimal physical function. Ligaments and musculature are often affected just the same. Tightness, pulling and discomfort can cause poor movement, discomfort and pain.
Alleviating Back Pain
Many women experience back pain postpartum due to the strain of carrying and nursing a baby, combined with the lingering effects of pregnancy-related changes. Chiropractic care can help alleviate this pain, providing a safe and non-invasive alternative to pain medication.
Restoring Pelvic Balance
Pregnancy can lead to a misaligned pelvis, which can then affect labor and delivery. If left unaddressed, pelvic misalignment can contribute to pain and instability postpartum. Chiropractic adjustments can help restore pelvic balance, promoting proper alignment and reducing potential discomfort. Chiropractors can also provide specific exercises targeting musculature to help with stabilization.
Treating Diastasis Recti
Diastasis recti, a common postpartum condition where the two abdominal muscles separate, can be addressed through chiropractic care and specific exercises. A chiropractor can provide exercises to strengthen the core and offer adjustments to facilitate recovery.
Contributing to Emotional Well-being
While chiropractic care primarily addresses physical issues, it can also play a role in emotional wellness. Chronic pain can lead to feelings of frustration, anxiety, or depression. By managing physical discomfort, chiropractic care can contribute to a better emotional state postpartum.
The Path to Healing and Strength
Every woman's postpartum journey is unique, and her recovery should be personalized to her needs. A holistic approach that includes chiropractic care can effectively address the physical challenges that arise after childbirth.
Remember, the postpartum period is not just about "getting your body back." It's about nurturing and healing yourself, allowing you to be the best mother you can be. Through the integration of chiropractic care into postpartum rehab, new mothers can take control of their recovery and pave the way towards better health and well-being.
We are here to help!
- IC