Pregnancy can be one of the most exciting times in a woman’s life and the staff here at Cannington Physiotherapy are all willing and able to keep you as fit, healthy and comfortable during your pregnancy as possible. Physio pilates is a fantastic and safe way to stay fit during pregnancy and we have a range of session times to suit your busy lifestyle.
The physios are also trained to be able to help you manage the physical challenges that arise during pregnancy some of which include; pelvic girdle pain/instability, lower back pain, carpal tunnel syndrome, DeQuervain’s tenosynovitis and rib pain.
Pelvic Girdle Pain (PGP)
During pregnancy the hormone relaxin is released, causing ‘stretchiness’ in the ligaments supporting the pelvis. This, along with the increased weight of the baby sitting on your pelvic floor muscles for the duration of your pregnancy means that the muscles surrounding the pelvis need to work a little bit harder to control the pelvic joints. If this does not occur pain and inflammation may result in the pelvic region. Physiotherapy can help you to relieve this pain as well as teach you to strengthen the muscles in the pelvic region and educate you on how to avoid aggravation.
Lower Back Pain
Similar to PGP changes to the muscles and ligaments during pregnancy can result in lower back pain. At Cannington Physiotherapy we are able to use a variety of techniques to treat this back pain. Physio pilates can be particularly helpful to strengthen the muscles that support the back during and after pregnancy.
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Tingling, numbness or a burning pain in the hands, particularly at night, may be due to carpal tunnel syndrome. During pregnancy this is primarily caused by increased swelling in the hands. Treatment for this can include soft tissue release, ultrasound, wrist splinting/bracing and management advice.
DeQuervain’s Tenosynovitis
Often seen in the last trimester of pregnancy and in new mum’s, DeQuervain’s is the painful inflammation of certain tendons in the thumb. Often, the cause is unknown during pregnancy but can be accounted to carrying the new baby more in new mother’s. A wide range of techniques can be used to treat and manage this thumb pain.
Rib Pain
Pain in your ribs or abdomen can occur while pregnant as your baby is growing and trying to make space within your body. Pain originating from the ribs can be referred to the upper back, under the breasts or sides of the chest. Treatment is available at Cannington Physiotherapy including hands-on treatment as well as exercises and management strategies.