EXISTING OR NEW PAIN
Childbirth is definitely one of the best demonstrations of the power of a woman’s body. This power is evident throughout pregnancy, but also in the impressive postpartum recovery capacity in the months that follow. However, sometimes, despite all its power, several factors come into play: lack of sleep, postures for baby care and feeding, constantly carrying the baby with or without a shell, the hormonal cascade of the fourth trimester, as well as all the biomechanical changes in the new mother. All of these factors can lead to the aggravation of existing pain or the appearance of new ones. These include:
These are all conditions that can be treated with chiropractic care. However, I’d like you to keep in mind that you can also seek preventive care. This consultation will aim to:
Optimize good pelvic mobility and alignment.
Reduce or eliminate muscle tension (in the lower back and pelvis, but also the shoulder blades or rib cage).
Promote a complete recovery.
I also want to reassure mothers: your little babies are always welcome at the clinic. We do everything we can to ensure their comfort during your treatment.
SOME TIPS TO PREVENT OR MINIMIZE POSTPARTUM PAIN OR DISCOMFORT
Carry baby close to your body and centered. To carry your baby for longer periods of time and to be able to use your hands, baby carriers or slings that allow you to have your baby centered will be your best allies. As for the shell, pick it up and carry it by keeping it in front of you, elbows bent, rather than sideways on a forearm. This way, the seat is closer to your body and centered, reducing pressure on your back.
Avoid twisting movements as much as possible. To protect your back, I recommend adding a few steps before lifting. For example, position yourself in front of your baby or slide them in front of you before lifting them, and use your legs (don’t forget your glutes and core!). Similarly, position the shell facing you before lifting it completely.
Add support for your back during feedings. Whether breastfeeding or bottle-feeding, please make yourself comfortable! As much as possible, keep your spine in a neutral position and don’t lean toward your baby, but rather bring them close to you. Use all the cushions you need, but don’t stay in an uncomfortable position for several minutes where your back has to work in poor posture. Take the time to get comfortable and have everything you need within easy reach. The few minutes you take to get comfortable will be a great investment for your back and neck!
Strengthen your muscles. After giving birth, whether vaginally or by cesarean section, it’s important to gradually strengthen your pelvic floor muscles over the next few weeks. I recommend consulting a pelvic floor physiotherapist first, and then consider consulting a kinesiologist to develop a more comprehensive exercise program tailored to your health.
Consult your chiropractor. Whether it’s to treat pain or discomfort, or to prevent its occurrence, don’t hesitate to consult me during the first few weeks postpartum.