Are You Looking For a Postpartum Physical Therapist In Greer, South Carolina?

Postpartum physical therapy is specialized care designed to help women recover physically after childbirth. It focuses on restoring strength and function to muscles and tissues affected by pregnancy and delivery, such as the pelvic floor, abdominal muscles, and back.

Many women experience physical challenges after childbirth, including pelvic pain, incontinence, diastasis recti (separation of the abdominal muscles), and back pain. Postpartum physical therapy can help address these issues, restore core strength, improve mobility, and prevent long-term complications.

You can typically start postpartum physical therapy 4-6 weeks after a vaginal birth or 6-8 weeks after a C-section, once you’ve had clearance from your healthcare provider. However, therapy can also be helpful months or even years after delivery if you are still experiencing symptoms.

Common conditions treated include:

- Pelvic floor dysfunction (incontinence, pelvic pain)

- Diastasis recti (abdominal separation)

- Lower back, hip, or pelvic pain

- Pain during intercourse

- Scar tissue management from C-section or episiotomy

- Postural issues from breastfeeding or carrying the baby

The length of time in therapy depends on the severity of your symptoms and personal recovery goals. Most women benefit from 6-12 weeks of consistent therapy, but some may need more or fewer sessions.

Yes, postpartum physical therapy can be very effective in treating diastasis recti. Physical therapists use targeted exercises to improve core strength and help close the gap between abdominal muscles.

Yes, physical therapy is safe and recommended after a C-section. It can help with scar tissue management, core and pelvic floor recovery, and relieving pain or discomfort. Your physical therapist will tailor your plan to ensure it’s appropriate for your stage of healing.

Yes, many women experience urinary leakage after childbirth due to weakened pelvic floor muscles. Postpartum physical therapy includes pelvic floor exercises to strengthen these muscles and improve bladder control.

In many cases, you can see a physical therapist without a referral, though it depends on your location and insurance provider. It’s always a good idea to check with your insurance to understand your coverage.

Exercises typically include:

- Pelvic floor strengthening (Kegel exercises)

- Core stabilization and strengthening

- Gentle stretches to improve mobility

- Postural exercises to correct alignment

- Breathing techniques to support muscle recovery

- 11. Can I do postpartum physical therapy while breastfeeding?

Yes, you can safely participate in physical therapy while breastfeeding. In fact, it can help alleviate some of the strain and discomfort that breastfeeding might cause, such as upper back and shoulder pain.

While postpartum physical therapy focuses on physical recovery, it can indirectly improve emotional well-being. The physical activity and body awareness fostered in therapy can help reduce stress, improve mood, and provide a sense of control over your recovery, which may help manage postpartum depression or anxiety.

Wear comfortable clothing that allows for movement, such as leggings, shorts, and a loose-fitting top. The therapist may need to assess areas like your abdomen or pelvic floor, so it's helpful to wear clothing that's easy to adjust as needed.

Therapy shouldn't be painful, though some exercises may feel challenging or uncomfortable, especially if you’re dealing with scar tissue or muscle weakness. Your therapist will ensure that the exercises are safe and appropriate for your recovery level.