Is Physical Therapy Safe During Pregnancy?

Pregnancy is a beautiful and transformative time in a woman's life, but it often comes with its own set of challenges, aches, and pains. As the body undergoes significant changes to accommodate the growing baby, many women experience discomfort, pain, and limitations in their mobility. This is where physical therapy (PT) can play a crucial role in ensuring a healthy and comfortable pregnancy.

The question often arises: Is physical therapy safe during pregnancy? In this blog post, we will explore the benefits of physical therapy during pregnancy and discuss safety considerations to help you make an informed decision.

The Role of Physical Therapy During Pregnancy

Physical therapy is a non-invasive treatment modality that aims to restore and improve movement and function. When applied during pregnancy, physical therapy can serve several important purposes:

1. Pain Management and Relief:

During pregnancy, women may experience various musculoskeletal issues such as back pain, pelvic pain, sciatica, or round ligament pain. Physical therapists can provide exercises, stretches, and manual techniques to alleviate these discomforts and improve overall mobility.

2. Posture Correction:

The changing body shape during pregnancy can cause or exacerbate back and neck pain. The way someone moved their body prior to pregnancy and the muscle activation patterns they relied on, may not feel good during pregnancy. Physical therapy can help through targeted exercises and education to reducing the strain on the back, improve muscle activation patterns, and improve overall comfort.

3. Prevention and Rehabilitation:

Physical therapists can design exercise programs during pregnancy to help people stay active to counteract the effects of the changing body. At New Journey Physical Therapy, all of our PTs are also specially trained in evaluation and treatment of the pelvic floor. Starting treatment of the pelvic floor during pregnancy leads to easier labor and delivery and reduces risk of urinary incontinence during and after pregnancy.

4. Education and Guidance:

A crucial aspect of physical therapy during pregnancy is educating women about appropriate exercises, body mechanics, and activities to engage in and avoid. At New Journey Physical Therapy, our PTs are also trained to give you customized recommendations based on your pain, movement limitation, and medication history to prepare for labor and delivery. This knowledge empowers them to manage their symptoms effectively.

Safety Considerations

While physical therapy offers significant benefits during pregnancy, ensuring safety is paramount. Here are some essential safety considerations when considering physical therapy during pregnancy:

1. Consultation with a Healthcare Provider:

Before starting any physical therapy program it is important to know whether your obstetrician or midwife has advised of any activity restrictions that should be follwed.

2. Experienced and Knowledgeable Physical Therapist:

Choose a physical therapist who specializes in prenatal care and has experience working with pregnant individuals. They should be knowledgeable about the physiological changes during pregnancy and tailor their approach accordingly. At New Journey Physical Therapy, all of our therapists have taken advance continuing education courses specific to caring for the pregnant body

3. Customized Treatment Plans:

Physical therapy sessions should be tailored to your individual needs and adjusted as your pregnancy progresses. The exercises and treatments should be safe, and appropriate for each stage of pregnancy.

4. Avoid Certain Techniques and Positions:

Certain positions, such as lying flat on your back, should be utilized with caution, especially in the later stages of pregnancy. A physical therapist who specializes in pregnancy care will be able to guide you on suitable positions and modifications.

5. Monitoring and Communication:

During the therapy sessions, constant monitoring of your progress and communication with your physical therapist are crucial. If you experience any discomfort or have concerns, it's essential to speak up and collaborate with your therapist to adjust the treatment plan accordingly.

In Conclusion

Physical therapy can be a safe and effective way to manage the physical challenges that accompany pregnancy. When undertaken with proper guidance and under the care of an experienced physical therapist, it can provide relief from pain, improve posture, and enhance overall well-being. However, always prioritize communication with your healthcare provider and choose a qualified physical therapist to ensure a safe and beneficial experience during this beautiful journey of pregnancy.