POSTPARTUM CARE
The postpartum period is such an important, sensitive and exciting time for a new mom. You are recovering from delivering a precious baby (vaginal or cesarean), trying to find time to care for yourself daily and most importantly nourishing and caring for your little one. Some women have an easier recovery than others and won’t have any physical complaints afterwards, however other women have a much harder time with recovery and need some assistance, which is why I’m here! Either way, after such an intensive journey, our bodies need support during this time and rehab is a must!
Why Might You Need a Postpartum Rehab and Recovery Specialist?
Your body just ran a major marathon! 9(ish) months of body changes during pregnancy, delivery that results in drastic and quick changes to our bodies usually within a day or two, and then our bodies adapt and heal within the weeks after having a baby. Whew! That’s a lot. Our bodies can use and benefit from rehab after going through all of these changes in such a short period of time. Every woman and body is very different and therefore recovery will vary for each of us after delivery. All women can benefit from core rehab as our muscles naturally separate during pregnancy, balancing the pelvis, and supporting any other areas of weakness, instability or pain that you may be experiencing postpartum.
What Conditions Can a Postpartum Chiropractor Help With?
A postpartum chiropractor will focus on reducing any aches & pains you may be experiencing, restore normal joint function, rehab the core/abdominal muscles, help you strengthen areas of weakness and most importantly help you reach your health goals. Some women have a goal of just getting out of pain while others may want to return to crossfit or other intensive activities. A few of the more common postpartum conditions that I frequently treat are neck/back pain, diastasis recti/core instability, c-section scar rehab, headaches/migraines, hand swelling/pain, and many more.
What Does Treatment Look Like?
In your first appointment, I will do a thorough examination and address your main complaints. Treatments will consist of a combination of chiropractic adjustments, soft tissue (muscle) therapies, rehab exercises, cupping, and/or nutrition counseling.
When Can I Start Exercising Again After Having a Baby?
Exercise programs should be resumed gradually after giving birth or when medically safe. Exercise programs should vary depending on whether you had a vaginal or cesarean birth, a complicated or uncomplicated birth and the presence or absence of any surgical or medical complications. You should consult your health care provider if you are unsure of whether it is safe to resume or start an exercise program. I am experienced with introducing new exercise and rehab programs at a variety of points during the postpartum period. You can start general rehab and prevention of diastasis recti within a few days of giving birth. Visit our contact page to schedule a free consult to discuss your postpartum health goals.