§  Peri-partum and post-partum issues

*  Sacroiliac/Low back pain/Piriformis syndrome
Affects approx. 50% of pregnant women
Causes:  anterior shift of center of gravity, Relaxin decreasing inherent stability of SI joint
Symptoms:  low back, pelvic, or groin pain, aggravated with activity, relieved by supine, sitting, or supporting the abdomen
Treatment:  proper posture and positioning, body mechanics education, soft tissue manipulation, support belts, and HEP
Average length of treatment: 8-10 visits
 
*  Patella Femoral Dysfunction
Causes:  increased ligament laxity, increased femoral torsion>
Symptoms:  anterior knee pain, aggravated with stair climbing or sitting long periods of time
Treatment:  VMO and quad strengthening, hip and knee stretching, patellar bracing, kinesiotaping, and HEP
Average length of treatment:  10-12 visits
 
* Diastisis Rectus Abdominis
Causes:  weak abdominals, failure to return to pre-partum length
Symptoms:  greater than two finger widths separation of lower rectus abdominis, protrusion of linea alba with partial sit-ups
Treatment:  abdominal strenghthening, biofeedback, neuromuscular reeducation
Average length of treatment:  10-12
 
*  Managing Pregnancy Related Back Pain During Intercourse
You want a position that does not increase the arch of the back.   You want a slightly flexed position that flattens the low back.
A physical therapist can teach proper body mechanics that will aide in increasing comfort and minimizing low back strain.
 
 
§  Other Women’s Health Issues
 
*  Breast Cancer Recovery
Symptoms:  muscle pain and spasms, myopathy, decreased shoulder ROM, postural changes, adhesive capsulitis
Treatment: active and passive range of motion, massage, gentle strengthening, and HEP
Average length of treatment:  12-15 visits
 

   
* Osteoporosis
Women have a 30% chance of obtaining an osteoporosis related fracture
Causes:  demineralization of bone
Risk factors:  decreased bone mineral density, previous fracture,
frequent falls, increased thoracic kyphosis, or height loss
Treatment:  strength, coordination, and balance exercises, extensive HEP     
Average length of treatment:  12-15 visits