Yonemoto Physical Therapy

Years ago, someone convinced me to run a 5-mile race soon after the birth of my first child.  I finished that race in a respectable time but ended up having a hip problem, which still bothers me at times.  Even physical therapists with their extensive knowledge can harm themselves in new situations.

Why did I hurt my hip while running soon after pregnancy?  I trained for the race by gradually increasing my running time over a period of about 8 weeks.  Some of the problem occurred because I didn’t allow myself enough time to build up to the distance and speed I did in the race.  Also, I did not build up the abdominal, pelvic and hip strength I had lost during my pregnancy.  Ligaments change during pregnancy.  They get looser to prepare the body for the passage of the baby through the birth canal.  It takes time for these ligaments to tighten up again following the delivery.  This may also have been a factor in my case.

There are lots of good fitness classes and videotaped exercises designed to educate new moms in fitness.  Find a book or program directed specifically towards new moms.  Certain exercises may be too vigorous and can be harmful within the first 6 months postpartum.

Restoration of the strength of the abdominal and pelvic floor are key.  Avoid sit-ups and strenuous abdominal exercise until there is enough abdominal strength so bulging does not occur during exercise.  A physical therapist can teach you safe at-home exercises.  Remember, body posture and back care are important for the new mother so injuries don't occur from daily care of the baby.

If you have persistent back or pelvic pain following the birth, remember childbirth can be very hard on the mother due to the strong forces pushing on pelvic bones.  It may cause abnormal stress on bones, muscles, and ligaments.  Stretching muscles out of their normal position also results in instability and imbalances, which can cause pain and increased effort in movement.  Sometimes manual hands-on therapy along with a reconditioning exercise program is necessary to assist the body to resume its pre-pregnant shape.

Plan your activities with appropriate rest periods.  Listen to your body for signals you need to rest, and pace yourself to get the maximum activity and enjoyment from your daily routine.  Eat well and include lots of fresh fruits and vegetables in your diet, drink plenty of water and get appropriate amounts of protein.  Seek help when you need it.  Most importantly, trust yourself and your own ability to do what's right for you and the baby.

Yonemoto Physical Therapy
55 S. Raymond Ave., Suite 100
Alhambra, CA 91801
PHONE:  626 576 0591
FAX: 626 576 5890

Links:
http://www.yonemoto.com/ - Yonemoto Physical Therapy home page
http://www.yonemoto.com/programs/IMT.htm - Integrative Manual Therapy, a Hands-On Approach
http://www.yonemoto.com/programs/qigong.htm - Qigong to boost the immune system

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