Physiotherapy During Pregnancy: What's Safe and How It Helps
Back ache, pelvic pain and poor sleep are common in pregnancy, but you don't have to just put up with them.
Pregnancy changes your body quickly. Hormones loosen your ligaments, your centre of gravity shifts forward and your back works harder every week. Many women are told that pain is "just part of pregnancy", but most of it can be eased safely.
Common problems we help with
Lower back pain, pelvic girdle pain (pain at the front of the pelvis or in the buttocks), pain turning in bed or climbing stairs, wrist pain, leg cramps and poor sleep because of discomfort.
Is it safe?
Yes, when it is guided by a trained physiotherapist. Positions, pressure and exercises are adapted to your trimester. We avoid lying flat on your back for long periods later in pregnancy, and we always follow your gynaecologist's advice.
What a session looks like
A gentle assessment, hands-on treatment where useful, advice on sleeping and sitting positions, support belts if needed, and a short routine of safe exercises for your back, hips and pelvic floor.
After delivery
Postnatal physiotherapy helps you rebuild core strength, check for separation of the tummy muscles (diastasis recti), recover pelvic floor control and return to exercise safely, usually from around 6 weeks, or later after a C-section, once your doctor is happy.
When to call your doctor first
Bleeding, fluid leakage, severe headache, chest pain, dizziness or reduced baby movements are medical concerns. Contact your doctor straight away.
ReViva's women's health sessions are with a female physiotherapist and are available at the clinic, at home or online.
By Dr. Neha Singh
General information only. Please see a professional for advice on your condition.
