Pre/Postnatal Pain

Pregnancy is one of the most meaningful and remarkable experiences in a woman’s life. However, pregnancy is also a physically and emotionally taxing experience because of the pain and discomfort that can go hand in hand with anatomical changes. New Stride Physical Therapy in Corpus Christi provides a comprehensive program perfectly suited to relieve pre and postpartum back pain through manual therapy and movement.

Classical Pilates is an exercise form that aims to improve overall fitness while developing the deep muscles of the core and pelvic floor. Classical Pilates is true to the teaching of Joseph Pilates and is a purposeful mind-body-spirit program. Its mind-body connection and non-impact, custom approach to exercise ensures that every patient reaps the benefits from a workout tailored to her fitness level and her body’s unique intricacies.

Classical Pilates exercise is performed on the mat, Reformer and Cadillac apparatus. The Reformer and Cadillac apparatus assist and challenge the patient to gain strength, flexibility and precision. The benefits of Pilates transfer into daily life and are revealed in a more upright, relaxed posture, and greater ease of movement, and increased awareness of the body.

How Does Pilates Relieve Postpartum Back Pain?

• Postural Alignment. Throughout the gestation period, postural alignment alters, and many muscles become imbalanced, which can put mechanical stress on the low back, pelvis, hips and feet. Improving postural alignment is therefore a key benefit of Pilates training during and after pregnancy.
• Lumbopelvic Region. As the baby grows, the women's center of gravity shifts, affecting coordination and balance. Pilates exercises can enhance these skills without compromising safety.
• Shoulder Girdle. The physical demands of lifting and carrying a newborn require upper-body strength and stability.

Pilates Program Recommendations for the Pre or Postpartum Patient

• Periodically Check for Diastasis Recti.
• Teach the Proper Way to Get Up From the Floor. A raised mat or mat converter on a reformer may be used instead of the floor.
• Be Sure to Warm Up and Cool Down Adequately. Joseph Pilates incorporated a warm up and cool down in his program to protect cardiovascular and joint health.
• Concentrate on Pilates Exercise Programs for the Pelvic Floor, Spinal Stability and Joint Stability, as well as on Balancing the Entire Musculoskeletal System.
• Avoid Large Ranges of Motion. Support positions using a small pillow, spine supporter or small barrel, and ensure sub-maximal contraction (25%) of the pelvic-floor and transversus muscles.
• Adjust for Joint Laxity. Increased laxity makes pregnant women more vulnerable to sprains and strains. Therefore, avoid long-lever movement and refrain from keeping your client in the same position for too long, especially while standing.

Bringing a new life into the world is supposed to be a joyful and exciting time for you and your family. You’ve come to the right place for pain relief if you’re experiencing pre- or postnatal pain.