Why Should I See a Physiotherapist During My Pregnancy?

Pregnancy Physiotherapy for Wellbeing

There are a number of symptoms that can arise during your pregnancy and after giving birth. It is common, and recommended, for pregnant women to see a physiotherapist when they experience pain and discomfort during their pregnancy. 

Pregnancy physiotherapy is safe and is an effective way of reducing your pregnancy-related aches and pains. Physio treatments that are specifically designed for pregnant women also improve mobility, making for a smoother pregnancy, labour and post-natal recovery. 

There are a number of reasons why pregnant women experience different levels of aches and pains that pregnancy physio can help with. Issues can stem from a number of different lifestyle changes, including: 

• hormonal changes
• displaced centre of gravity 
• posture adjustments
• reduced mobility

Most Common Physio Treatments During Pregnancy

Lower Back Pain In Pregnant Patients

Back pain or back aches are very common during pregnancy, especially in the early stages as your body is adjusting.

There are many reasons for lower back pain during pregnancy, such as excess strain on the back, poor posture, and softer ligaments due to the increase in hormones. It can range from mild pain, to acute or chronic pain, depending on the situation. 

Low back pain is also very common after giving birth, with many women experiencing post partum back stiffness and soreness. 

Pelvic Girdle Pain During Maternity and Postnatal

Pelvic floor muscles can become strained or weakened during pregnancy and childbirth, as they work a lot harder than usual to support the weight of the baby. This can lead to pelvic floor dysfunction and continence problems. Pelvic floor exercises during pregnancy and postpartum can decrease the damage done to the muscles that can occur due to the extra strain and weight of carrying a baby.

At City Physio, our physiotherapists have undergone training in pregnancy and postpartum exercises. We offer 1:1 sessions with our physiotherapists who assess you, and then devise a specific exercise program to your needs during your pregnancy and postnatal period.

Other common pregnancy symptoms that we see at City Physiotherapy include: 

• joint pain and stiffness 
• sacroiliac joint pain 
• sciatica 
• weakness in the core and abdominal muscles 
• poor mobility, flexibility and balance 
• stress and tension relief
• carpal tunnel syndrome
• groin/pubic bone pain
• swelling in feet & hands
• wrist pain
• neck & shoulder pain

Read more about our prenatal and postnatal physiotherapy here. 

Top Tips for a Healthy Pregnancy and Postnatal Recovery: 

At City Physio, we care about your overall wellbeing and health during pregnancy. While our primary focus is on your physical wellbeing, we take a holistic approach and want to see you get back on track in all aspects of your life. 

Staying Active During Pregnancy

Regular physical activity throughout your pregnancy can help you stay feeling positive and healthy, but it also helps you prepare your body for labour and recovery. Low-impact exercises, such as walking, light resistance exercises, yoga, pilates and swimming are great options.

The many benefits of exercise throughout pregnancy include:

• lowers stress
• improves sleep 
• helps to reduce nausea, heartburn, and lower back pain
• increases energy levels 
• prepares you for labour and recovery

A Healthy and Balanced Diet 

Eating a nutritious diet helps your baby develop. What you eat not only affects your own health and wellbeing, but the health and wellbeing of your baby. 

Ensure you are eating a balanced and nutrient-rich diet, which consists of vegetables, lean protein, wholegrains, healthy carbohydrates, fibre, and essential vitamins and minerals. 

Overall Pregnancy Wellbeing 

Everybody responds differently to changes during their pregnancy. Changes in hormones, blood sugar levels, and blood pressure can impact your mental and physical health. These changes can also make you feel more tired, so getting enough sleep is important. Some days you will feel energised, but others will be low. When you’re having a low day, it is important to recognise it and take care of yourself and your mental wellbeing.

Why Choose City Physio Adelaide? 

At City Physio, we are well-equipped to target your particular needs, pains, or concerns. We will not only relieve your pain, but work with you to prevent and manage the issue, ensuring that we are aligning with any potential special requirements. We care about your health and pregnancy wellbeing beyond the specific issue. 

Our physiotherapists have undergone training in pregnancy and postpartum exercise, meaning we can safely and effectively assist you, so you can return to feeling good in your body again. 

Click the button below to book an appointment, or call us for more information about our pregnancy physiotherapy services. 

Sources: 

https://www.health.gov.au/your-healthy-pregnancy 

https://www.nhs.uk/pregnancy/related-conditions/common-symptoms/

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