The most wondrous part of your life is happening - but it hurts. Help!
There are many sources telling you how to feel and what is “normal.” The American Physical Therapy Association gives you the straight facts.
WHAT kind of pain? Prenatal pain can include: numbness, pain in the pelvis, spine, hips, shoulders, ribs, arms or legs. Core muscle weakness makes getting in and out of a chair, car, and bed difficult. Stress placed on the pelvic floor muscles during pregnancy can result in pelvic pain, constipation, urinary and/or bowel incontinence, and painful sex during pregnancy and postpartum.
WHY? Pregnancy and postpartum are times of great change for a woman – physically, emotionally, and hormonally. As the fetus grows, your musculoskeletal system (what holds you together) is challenged by new posture, muscle imbalances, and changes in spinal mobility. These changes can cause pain, difficulty with balance, and lets face it - reduced activity.
WHEN do I power through and WHEN do I need a Pelvic Health PT? Seek out some help when experiencing:
Pain in the neck, back, shoulder, arm, ribs, hip, pelvis and leg
Nerve symptoms such as numbness in the arm, hand, and leg
Difficulty walking or performing normal daily activities
Weak or tight muscles, including abdominal weakness
Desire to resume or start an exercise program
Pain has adverse effects into many parts of your life, take care and seek out reliable help.