As a Physiotherapist, I have 13 years of experience working in both Women’s Health Physiotherapy and Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy. I have worked with many women, both in the hospital and private practice setting, to assist them with pain and other presentations during their pregnancy and postnatally.
Pregnancy is an enormous time of change for a woman’s body. A massive change in hormones causes softening of ligaments and increases joint mobility. Hormone changes also mean that the body becomes more sensitive to pain. As the uterus expands it moves the centre of gravity forward, causing the pelvis to tilt forward, thus significantly changing a woman’s posture. The weight gain (about 10-20kg) also results in an increased load on structures such as joints and muscles.
So, pregnancy and the postnatal period are times when a woman’s body is vulnerable to pain and injury due to the many changes that occur. The great news is that whilst these conditions may be common during this time, they can usually be managed effectively with a Physiotherapist who is experienced in pregnancy and postnatal care.
So, what can I offer the pregnant or postnatal woman?
I can help with:
Back pain
Pelvic pain
Coccyx pain
Buttock pain
Abdominal pain
Abdominal muscle separation
Pubic pain
Breast conditions – mastitis/engorgement/blocked duct
Pelvic floor education
Neck and shoulder pain
Swelling
Wrist & thumb pain
Advice regarding safe & appropriate exercise
Postnatal check-up and advice
Many other conditions
I am passionate about providing care to women during this time in their life. I believe that pregnancy and your time with your new baby should be a special time for a woman. I understand a woman’s changing body and how to support these changes. I can assist you in making this time happier and more comfortable.
I can also provide a Physiotherapy postnatal check-up to identify any problem areas and to provide you with advice and a home exercise program to assist you in your recovery. This is recommend approximately 4-6 weeks postnatally so that we can set you on the right path to a speedier recovery.
I would love to help you with your pregnancy and postnatal needs.