L.R was a 37 year old female, postpartum with her children ages 10 and 5. She came for PT (physical therapy) with complaints of weakness in her core muscles. She had been trying to be as active as she could with exercises she found online. However, was having a hard time seeing results and was starting to notice some persistent low back pain. Frustrated and not sure what exercises she should do, her midwife referred her for some postpartum rehabilitation.
Initial Examination
After talking extensively about her medical history, birthing experiences and goals, her physical therapy examination was conducted. This allowed for a better understanding of any predisposing factors that could increase her vulnerability for low back pain. A confirmation was made of her that she did have a diastasis recti, and there was quite a bit of tightness in the muscles in front of her hips and spine. These findings were discussed in depth with her referring midwife and together we developed her plan of care.
Treatment
L.R had physical therapy 1x/wk for 4 visits in which time the focus was on learning how to properly engage her deep abdominal muscles as well as treatments to reduce the tension of the muscles that were overcompensating.
Outcome
The outcome of therapy was a significant reduction in her low back pain, and she felt empowered in how to do her exercises effectively and independently to properly strengthen her core.
