Are you experiencing neck, hip, or lower back pain during your pregnancy?

Would you like to begin or continue an exercise program during your pregnancy or after delivery?

Lourdes Perinatal Physical Therapy Program can help.

Although lower back pain is commonly experienced during the pre and post natal phases of a woman’s life, having pain is never “normal.”  Lourdes Physical Therapists can assist with pain management during pregnancy and after delivery.  Physical therapy (PT) can improve your comfort and confidence during daily activities and get you started on a safe exercise program.

We perform patient education for the best possible positioning and posture during work, home, and leisure activities.  We instruct in safe and efficient body mechanics as you adjust to the pre and post natal changes in your body.  PT care during pregnancy may include hands on care exercise and the application of heat and cold. After pregnancy PT may also include the addition of various modalities.

The physical demands of caring for an infant include sustained postures for feeding and changing the baby as well as frequent bending and lifting in awkward positions.  The energy demand of child care can be more easily met if you have adequately prepared
yourself.  Physical preparation may include improving the core strength of your lower back, deep abdominal muscles and pelvic floor.  Strengthening the lower extremities and increasing your endurance can also be beneficial.

PT treatment helps restore proper alignment, strengthen the postural support of that alignment, and modify everyday activities to decrease strain on the spine and extremities.

The following are indications to consider Physical Therapy:

• Lower back pain
• Headaches
• Tendonitis
• Carpal tunnel syndrome
• Diashs recti (separation of the abdominal muscles)
• Nerve irritation
• Varicosities
• Weakness
• Postural, ligamentous and structural changes secondary to pregnancy

Program Highlights:

• Individualized evaluation
• Postural exercises
• Core stabilization exercises
• Instruction on positioning
• Manual therapy
• Cardiovascular conditioning
• Strength training

Lourdes Physical Therapists and PT Assistants have a special interest and training in the healthcare of women.  To begin an individualized PT program for pre or post natal care, please contact your physician for a referral.  

For more information about our Perinatal Physical Therapy Program, please call our Lourdes Outpatient Center in Vestal at (607) 786-3026. Perinatal Physical Therapy services are offered at the Vestal rehabilitation location only.