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Local therapist specializes in pregnancy-related physical therapy

KINGSFORD — As a clinician treating and specializing in clients who are new moms and moms-to-be, Sara Edlebeck-Gunville, doctor of physical therapy, finds it important to point out the impact childrearing and childbirth can have on the body.

“The female body is nothing short of amazing. Growing and delivering a child is truly miraculous, but it does not come without some physical implications,” she said.

It is not uncommon to hear pregnant and postpartum women discuss neck and back pain, urinary leakage, and/or pelvic pain, among other physical ailments. Hormonal changes during pregnancy creates joint laxity, as well as changes in posturing associated with the growing fetus and changing breast size.

“Great forces put through the pelvic girdle both during pregnancy and throughout labor and delivery elicit changes in the musculoskeletal structures of the pelvis, abdomen, and lumbar spine, along with bowel and bladder changes. Both vaginal and cesarean sections can leave women with scar tissue that can restrict normal movement patterns throughout the trunk,” Edlebeck-Gunville said.

“Physical therapy is a conservative way to manage and, often times, abolish not only pain but the other physical impairments associated with pregnancy,” she added.

Therapists at U.P. Rehab work collaboratively with the patient and their physician to establish a care plan that addresses pain symptoms and mobility concerns.

Care initiates with a thorough evaluation of the patient’s symptoms and history, followed by examination of posturing, movement patterns, flexibility, soft tissue mobility, scar tissue restrictions, neural structures, strength and stabilization. An individualized care plan follows to ensure appropriate care for each patient’s individual needs.

New mother, Jaime Hiatt, said she has found great value in post-delivery physical therapy.

“Sara and the team at U.P. Rehab Services are excellent to work with. They were very caring and compassionate with my treatment. I would recommend their services to my family and friends,” Hiatt said.

It is understandable that during this incredible nine month journey, expectant moms have much to do and a tendency to put themselves last. “That’s just what mothers do,” noted Edlebeck-Gunville. “However, moms-to-be and new moms alike need to treat themselves well before, during, and after pregnancy in order to ensure that they are functioning at their max potential for both themselves and for baby.

Whether you have a pregnancy-related condition, physical limitations, or are just worried about safely returning to physical activity, our female therapists work with you to establish a plan of care for your specific goals. Sometimes all it takes is a visit or two with a therapist to ensure you safely get back to your routine.”

She added that it is important to deal with these problems before they become chronic issues. Many are not isolated to new moms, and although still treatable, become more severe and more challenging to improve as time passes.

Contact U.P. Rehab at 906-776-9003 for any questions or for a free screening.

SARA EDLEBECK-GUNVILLE

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