AB Osteopathy
Aurélie Babey, CAT(C) MSc Ost
Postnatal Osteopathy:
Physiological and Mechanical benefits
The postnatal period, also known as the "fourth trimester," is a time of recovery and adjustment for a woman's body after childbirth. During this phase, the body continues to undergo significant changes, and osteopathy can play a crucial role in supporting this transition.
Physical and Mechanical Challenges After Childbirth
After giving birth, a mother’s body readjusts to return to its pre-pregnancy state. This process can lead to several physical and mechanical challenges:
Pelvic Misalignment:
Childbirth, especially vaginal delivery, can cause imbalances in the pelvis, leading to persistent pelvic or lower back pain. Osteopathy can help realign the pelvis, reducing discomfort and facilitating recovery.
Lower Back and Sacroiliac Pain:
Pregnancy and childbirth place significant strain on the spine, particularly in the lumbar region. This can result in muscle tension and lower back pain. Osteopathy works to release muscle tension and improve joint mobility to relieve this pain.
Tissue Healing and Adhesions:
After a cesarean section or vaginal delivery, scar tissue and adhesions may form. Osteopathy can help improve the flexibility of scar tissue, promoting better healing and reducing associated pain.
Pelvic Floor Rebalancing:
Postural changes that occurred during pregnancy can persist after childbirth, causing pain in the neck, shoulders, and back. Postnatal osteopathy helps correct these postural misalignments, improving overall posture and reducing tension.
Réalignement Postural :
Les changements posturaux survenus pendant la grossesse peuvent persister après l'accouchement, provoquant des douleurs au niveau du cou, des épaules, et du dos. L'ostéopathie postnatale aide à corriger ces désalignements posturaux, améliorant ainsi la posture générale et réduisant les tensions.
Physiological Benefits of Postnatal Osteopathy
Improved Circulation
Postnatal osteopathy promotes better blood and lymphatic circulation, which is essential for healing and recovery. Improved circulation helps reduce postpartum swelling and aids in the elimination of accumulated toxins.
Stress and Fatigue Reduction:
The postnatal period can be emotionally and physically exhausting. Osteopathy helps reduce stress and fatigue by promoting relaxation and releasing accumulated body tension.
Support for Breastfeeding
Proper posture and the absence of tension in the body can facilitate breastfeeding. Osteopathy helps improve posture and relieve tension in the back, shoulders, and neck, making breastfeeding easier and reducing associated pain.
Prevention of Chronic Pain:
By addressing physical and mechanical imbalances immediately after childbirth, osteopathy can help prevent the development of chronic pain that might otherwise persist long after the postnatal period.