Pre-natal and Postnatal Physiotherapy Edmonton

Embrace motherhood with confidence!

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Pre-natal and Postnatal Physiotherapy Edmonton

Embrace motherhood with confidence!

Get Consultation Now

Pre-natal & Postnatal Physiotherapy Edmonton

Is pregnancy or postpartum pain making your daily life harder?

Do you want to figure out what works best for you to recover and regain your strength?

We at Turning Point will be there along with you every step of the way!

Here, we specialize in prenatal and postnatal physiotherapy and will provide you with the necessary comprehensive care:

  • Is there a sensation of pain or swelling in the back and pelvic area during pregnancy?
  • Want to know if prenatal physiotherapy helps and prepares your body for childbirth?
  • Looking for effective recovery options for postnatal issues like back pain or C-section?
  • Do you need expert advice on how to get back to daily activities after parturition?

Regain comfort and strength with our prenatal and postnatal physiotherapy services in Edmonton.  

physiotherapist-helping-to-beautiful

Your path to optimal health begins here!

Ready to prioritize your well-being? Schedule your appointment with Turning Point Physical Therapy now.

Common Conditions Faced During Pre-Natal And Postnatal Periods Treated at Turning Point

Pre-natal Period

The body undergoes hormonal changes during pregnancy. Pain around the pelvic region and increased weight are quite common as a result. Exercise helps in improving posture and supports pelvic floor muscles.

Posture changes and increased baby weight are the primary causes of lower back pain. To regain strength in the back and core muscles, exercise and manual therapy help a great deal.

During pregnancy, the expanding uterus can compress the sciatic nerve, causing lower back pain radiating down the legs. Physiotherapy techniques like posture training, strengthening exercises, and targeted stretching can relieve these symptoms.

Due to hormonal changes, fluid retention, swelling of the wrist, and increased pressure on the median nerve may occur. This results in pain and numbness in the hands. Ergonomic practices and wrist splints can offer relief.

Intense pain from stretched circular ligaments in the groin or lower abdomen. You can gain relief from stretching exercises and posture modifications.

There might be swelling in the lower extremities due to fluid retention. Physiotherapy may involve compression techniques and exercises to improve circulation and reduce swelling.

Postnatal Period

It is the separation of the abdominal muscles along the midline. Core-strengthening exercises help to close the gap and improve abdominal function.
Pelvic organ prolapse or urinary incontinence is often caused due to weak pelvic floor muscles. Strengthening these muscles through pelvic floor training and biofeedback can help new moms improve their condition.

Caring for a newborn often causes posture shifts and physical strain, leading to chronic back pain. Physiotherapy can help with exercises, ergonomic tips, and hands-on therapy.

Following a cesarean section, pain and limited mobility may occur. Our physiotherapists can help with gentle mobilization exercises, scar tissue management, and core strengthening for recovery.
Incorrect breastfeeding posture can cause neck, shoulder, and upper back pain. Posture correction exercises, ergonomic advice, and stretching help to ease discomfort.

Mastitis and breast engorgement cause breast pain and swelling due to blocked ducts or infection. Ultrasound therapy, massage, and proper breastfeeding positions can relieve these symptoms.

Postpartum depression is a common issue women face after the birth of the child, leading to feelings of sadness, anxiety, and exhaustion. Physiotherapy typically includes counselling and lifestyle changes.

Pre-Natal Physiotherapy: Techniques And Exercises

Techniques 

1. Pelvic Floor Muscle Training (PFMT)

Pelvic Floor Muscle Training (PFMT) strengthens the muscles supporting the bladder, bowel, and uterus through specific exercises. New moms perform a series of guided muscle contractions and releases, often under the supervision of a physiotherapist. This regimen includes both fast and slow contractions to seamlessly enhance muscle tone and endurance.

2. Breathing exercises

Expected mothers individuals often learn breathing exercises like paced and diaphragmatic breathing, which helps improve oxygen flow, reduce stress, and manage pain during labour. 

3. Manual therapy

Manual therapy techniques improve mobility and manage pregnancy-related pain. Physiotherapists usually perform gentle manipulation or soft tissue techniques to relieve discomfort.   

4. Posture And Ergonomics Education

Posture and ergonomics education is about teaching correct alignment and reducing strain on the back and joints. Physiotherapists guide proper sitting, standing, lifting, and sleeping positions. 

5. Kinesio taping 

Kinesio taping supports the belly, reduces pain, and improves posture during pregnancy. The tapes are applied in a certain pattern to provide support while allowing movement. Physiotherapists usually apply the tape following tailored protocols. 

Exercises 

  • Pelvic tilts: This exercise strengthens the abdominal muscles and relieves lower back pain. 
  • Cat-cow stretch: This gentle spine flexion and extension movement improves mobility and reduces back tension.
  • Wall squats: This exercise makes your quadriceps, glutes, and core muscles stronger. It helps improve lower body strength needed for labour and delivery. 
  • Bridging: Start with your knees bent by laying on your back; pushing your hips off the floor works the glutes, lower back, and core muscles. 

Postnatal Physiotherapy: Techniques and Exercises

Techniques 

1. Pelvic floor rehabilitation

Pelvic floor rehabilitation restores balance and strengthens the pelvic floor muscles. Kegels and biofeedback training are recommended to improve muscle control and reduce symptoms of incontinence or pelvic organ prolapse. 

2. Core stability training

Core stability training focuses on strengthening the deep abdominal muscles, especially the transverse abdominis. This supports the spine and pelvis, improving posture and stability. New mothers are instructed to do specific exercises to enhance core strength and support.

3. Scar tissue mobilization

Scar tissue mobilization techniques improve the appearance of scar tissue resulting from procedures like cesarean sections or episiotomies. This helps to reduce adhesions and promote tissue healing. 

4. Postural correction

Postural correction teaches new mothers proper posture and exercises to address imbalances from pregnancy, breastfeeding, or carrying the baby. This involves stretches, strengthening exercises, and ergonomic adjustments to promote better alignment and reduce strain.

5. Diastasis recti management 

It aims to bring the rectus abdominis muscles back together and restore the function of the abdominal wall. New moms are instructed to do specific exercises to help relieve pain in the deep abdominal muscles.

6. Relaxation and stress management

Mental well-being is very important during pregnancy. Physiotherapists recommend progressive muscle relaxation, deep breathing exercises, and mindfulness meditation to deal with it.

Exercises 

  • Abdominal bracing: When you draw the belly button towards the spine while lying down, it helps support the core by engaging the deep abdominal muscles. 
  • Heel slides: Lying on the back, sliding one heel away from the body and back, focusing on maintaining core stability throughout the movement.
  • Gentle yoga stretches: Mild stretches such as the child’s pose and seated forward bends improve flexibility and relaxation.

Why do mothers need to prioritize their well-being, too?

One of life’s most beautiful experiences is motherhood. But often, while focusing on the baby’s needs, little room is left for mothers to think and care about themselves. 

At times, women face numerous pregnancy-related challenges, some of which may even be life-threatening.

These challenges can take a toll on their bodies and minds, making self-care not just important but essential. While it is natural for mothers to prioritize their babies, it’s also important for them to care for their physical and emotional needs. 

Visit Us Today For Pre-Natal And Postnatal Physiotherapy

Prenatal and postnatal physiotherapy provides effective relief and improvement for pregnancy and postpartum discomfort.

Our skilled physiotherapists assess your condition and offer the comprehensive care you need for pregnancy-related pain or postpartum recovery challenges.

Considering prenatal or postnatal physiotherapy in the Edmonton area? Contact us.

Pre-natal and Postnatal Physiotherapy Edmonton