Pregnancy is one of the most transformative experiences the human body goes through, and it places unique demands on the musculoskeletal system. As your body adapts to carry and deliver your baby, physical therapy can help you stay comfortable, active, and strong throughout your pregnancy — and prepare your body for a smoother delivery and faster postpartum recovery.
How Pregnancy Affects Your Body
During pregnancy, your body undergoes significant changes that affect your muscles, joints, and posture. The hormone relaxin loosens ligaments throughout your body, increasing joint mobility but also reducing stability. Your center of gravity shifts forward as your abdomen grows, increasing the curve in your lower back and placing new stresses on your spine, hips, and pelvis. Your abdominal muscles stretch to accommodate the growing uterus, which can lead to diastasis recti (separation of the rectus abdominis).
Common musculoskeletal complaints during pregnancy include low back pain (affecting up to 70 percent of pregnant women), pelvic girdle pain, sciatica, round ligament pain, carpal tunnel syndrome, and swelling in the hands and feet.
How Prenatal Physical Therapy Helps
Pain management through manual therapy, therapeutic exercise, and postural education can safely reduce pregnancy-related pain without medication. Core and pelvic floor strengthening prepares the muscles that support labor, delivery, and postpartum recovery. Exercise prescription helps you maintain fitness safely throughout each trimester, with modifications as your body changes. Education on positioning, body mechanics, and activity modification helps you navigate daily tasks with less discomfort.
Safe Exercise During Pregnancy
The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists recommends 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise per week during pregnancy for women with uncomplicated pregnancies. Safe activities include walking, swimming, stationary cycling, and prenatal yoga. Our therapists help you develop an exercise program that is appropriate for your fitness level, trimester, and any complications.
Support Your Pregnancy Journey
You do not have to accept pain as a normal part of pregnancy. Contact Kinito Physical Therapy or call (405) 633-0783 to schedule your prenatal evaluation.
For more information, visit NIH National Institute of Neurological Disorders and NIH.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog post is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
