North Light Physiotherapy’s specialist Obstetric Physiotherapist Becky Walker tells us more about the benefits of Ante Natal & Post Natal Pilates
“I run the Pilates Classes here at North Light Physiotherapy. My specialist Ante Natal / Post Natal Pilates classes are suitable from early pregnancy onwards – then once your baby is born, we’ll be ready to welcome you back after your 6 week postnatal check.
The class is a small group, so exercises can be tailored to suit each individual. All the exercises are safe for you and your baby, and will help your body to cope with the many changes it experiences throughout pregnancy and beyond. The main focus of the classes are to:
- Strengthen the abdominal and pelvic floor muscles
- Maintain spinal flexibility/movement
- Help reduce alterations in posture as the bump increases.
Pilates breathing techniques can also be very useful during labour.”
Pilates is highly recommended by physiotherapists for those experiencing Pelvic Girdle Pain (PGP).
Pelvic Girdle Pain (PGP)
PGP (previously known as SPD – Symphsis Pubis Dysfunction) can occur at any stage during or after pregnancy and birth. PGP is caused by an asymmetry of movement within the joints of the pelvis and lower back, this causes pain and difficulty moving. Find out more at The Pelvic Partnership’s website.
Symptoms of PGP:
- Pain and stiffness in pelvic joints
- Difficulty walking, climbing stairs and turning over in bed
- Pain and dysfunction can last for months or years without treatment
Treatment of PGP:
- Manual therapy is the most effective treatment
- PGP is treatable at any stage during pregnancy and postnatal – Hormone levels can’t be altered, but joint asymmetry can!
- Manual therapy treatment of the pelvic joints and soft tissue is safe and effective, both during and after pregnancy
- Breastfeeding can have a positive effect in recovery
- You can resolve your symptoms with early diagnosis and treatment
- Research* has shown that women who don’t have manual therapy can experience pain for months or years after the birth of their baby
For more information about pre or post-natal Obstetric Physiotherapy, or to book a Pilates Class with Becky, click our Contact page or call 01484 660663
North Light Physiotherapy Associates Ltd are registered with all major healthcare insurers