At Pamela Morrison Physical Therapy our therapists are experts in working with pregnant patients. We understand the demands placed on the body during the different phases of pregnancy. There are tremendous increases in blood volume and hormonal changes that can impact soft tissue structures. Many pregnant women experience low back pain and “sciatica”, which are usually caused by postural changes and sacroiliac dysfunction. Edema or swelling of the arms and legs, carpal tunnel symptoms, neck pain, headaches, incontinence, pelvic pain, and lower extremity pain are other common ailments. Stretching of the round ligaments that support the uterus may cause groin discomfort. Increased laxity in the ligaments may be a contributing factor to low back and pelvic pain during pregnancy.
How can Pamela Morrison Physical Therapy, P.C. help pregnant patients?
Our special luxury treatment table has a removable belly piece for maximum comfort during treatment. This enables the expectant mother to assume a prone position (face down) more comfortably if necessary. Treating with expert manual therapy to ease painful muscles, decrease edema or swelling, and increase joint motion and flexibility is another key to our successful outcomes. Spinal strengthening, core stabilization, upper back strengthening, pelvic floor exercises (kegels), posture and body mechanics education, stretching exercises, and positioning education are addressed. Therapy balls and foam roller exercises are incorporated and quite useful in facilitating core stabilization. To prepare you for labor, your physical therapist will be sure to correctly align your pelvis and enhance mobility of the pelvis and coccyx (tailbone) to optimize your birthing experience. Prenatal exercises are prescribed to suit your individual needs. Using biofeedback, we can also assess which birthing position may be optimal in relaxation of your pelvic floor muscles. We also make recommendations for supportive garments such as sacroiliac belts to provide external support.
