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After birth, the first six weeks are a critical period to begin exercise to get your body into pre-pregnancy shape. But, where to begin? Many changes occur in the musculoskeletal system during pregnancy and birth. The hormone Relaxin has influenced every joint in your client's body, creating ligamentous laxity which will last for 3-4 months post- delivery. This effect is longer if your client is breastfeeding. Their center of gravity is suddenly shifted, which can create problems with balance. The abdominal muscles become gradually overstretched and weak with pregnancy. The hip flexor and lower back muscles tighten as they are placed in a shortened position due to postural changes that occur during pregnancy. Additionally, the pelvic floor muscles are stretched relatively quickly during vaginal birth, and tearing may occur. Unfortunately, these muscles do not immediately return to their pre-pregnancy states.
It is quite tempting to jump back into a rigorous exercise routine after birth, however due to all these changes, there are recommended exercise progressions for the early post-partum period. These recommendations are intended for women after a normal vaginal birth without complications during the post-partum period. If additional health concerns are present, consultation with a physician or midwife is advised prior to beginning any exercise program.
When muscles are overstretched, they develop what is called a "stretch weakness". This means that there is not adequate overlap of the muscle fibers to perform at an optimal level. This may lead to pain or dysfunction in this area. When this stretch weakness occurs in the abdominal muscles, there is the potential for developing lower back, pelvic or hip pain. In the...