Pregnancy is an exciting time, but it can also be physically demanding on your body. Your body will change, stretch, and make room for the baby to grow. As the body undergoes significant changes, Rexburg physical therapy can provide a range of benefits to help manage pain and discomfort, improve mobility, and prepare for childbirth. If you are not sure if physical therapy would be helpful here are some of the benefits of physical therapy during pregnancy.
Alleviates Back and Pelvic Pain
As the baby grows, it can place additional strain on the lower back and pelvis, leading to discomfort and pain. It places extra pressure on your back muscles as your core muscles are stretched out. As your belly gets bigger, you may start to tuck your pelvis to try and support your growing belly which can cause back pain. Not to mention the extra tension that is placed on the pelvis as it supports the baby. Physical therapy can help alleviate these symptoms by strengthening the muscles in these areas and providing techniques for pain management.
Improves Posture and Balance
As the body changes during pregnancy, it can impact posture and balance, leading to an increased risk of falls and injuries. You may not be able to control your body as well and may even feel that your body is not your own throughout pregnancy. There are a lot of changes happening and it can be overwhelming. Going to physical therapy can help improve posture and balance by strengthening the core muscles and providing exercises to improve stability.
Prepares for Labor and Delivery
Physical therapy can provide techniques for pain management during labor and delivery, as well as exercises to help prepare the body for childbirth. Preparing for childbirth can look like a lot of things but one of the main components is being able to relax some of the muscles in your body. During childbirth, your body has to be able to stretch. Being able to relax and allow your muscles to stretch to make room for the baby can make labor a little easier on your body. This can also include pelvic floor exercises, breathing techniques, and stretches to prepare the body for the physical demands of labor.
Reduces Swelling
Swelling is a common symptom during pregnancy, particularly in the legs and feet. Physical therapy can help reduce swelling by improving circulation and providing exercises to promote movement. Ensuring that you are getting enough movement in your day can help with water retention. Movement is important but it is equally important to rest your body during pregnancy. Find a balance between rest and movement that works for you but also is beneficial for your body.
Improves Overall Health and Well-being
Physical therapy during pregnancy can improve overall health and well-being by promoting regular exercise and providing techniques for stress management. This can help reduce the risk of pregnancy-related complications, such as gestational diabetes and high blood pressure. It can also help strengthen the muscles, ligaments, and tendons in your body that are helping your body through all of the changes that come with pregnancy.