by Apple Therapy Amherst
Pregnancy and Postpartum Care at Apple Therapy in Amherst, NH!
During pregnancy, the female body undergoes tremendous changes in such a short period of time. With a growing abdomen during the second and third trimester, it’s easy to give into the “arched” posture (known as lumbar hyperlordosis) from reduced deep core abdominal contraction and improper alignment of ribs over pelvis. This increased stress on your abdominal fascia and lumbar spine may contribute to conditions such as back pain with or without sciatica and varying degrees of diastasis recti.
Post birth, the frequency of forward flexion tasks is immense with breastfeeding, diaper changing, cleaning dishes, and baby carrying. Breastfeeding contributes to forward head/shoulder posture due to increased breast tissue mass, poor positioning (bringing mother to baby for latching, instead of bringing baby to mother), and looking down extensively. This poor postural alignment throughout the whole spine contributes to musculoskeletal pain in the neck, shoulders, mid/lower back, etc.
Being mindful of your posture throughout your pregnancy and postpartum journey can help alleviate repetitive overuse injuries from occurring. This is where physical therapy can help! We can teach you proper breathing mechanics, body mechanics (transferring, lifting, carrying, diaper changing, breastfeeding), stretches, postural strengthening exercises, in addition to manual techniques (massage, dry needling) and pain reducing modalities to help ease your musculoskeletal pain. So if you are in need of some pregnancy or postpartum care, please seek a referral to Apple Therapy in Amherst so our therapist Heather Aufiero can help you!
Heather Aufiero, PT, DPT
Specialized in:
Pregnancy and Postpartum Certified Exercise Specialist
Certified Functional Dry Needling clinician
Certified Graston Technique clinician
Additional training in Pelvic Function
Located at Apple Therapy Services in Amherst, NH (603-769-3331)
