Prenatal & Postnatal Rehabilitation

Program Overview

Who May Benefit

• •People experiencing low back, hip, or pelvic pain during pregnancy
• •People preparing for labour and the physical demands of caring for a newborn
• •People recovering from vaginal delivery or caesarean section
• •People with abdominal separation (diastasis recti) or reduced core control after pregnancy
• •People returning to exercise, running, or sport after childbirth
• •People with posture-related neck, shoulder, or wrist pain from feeding and carrying
• •People planning a subsequent pregnancy who want to build strength beforehand

Common Concerns Addressed

• •Pregnancy-related low back and pelvic girdle pain
• •Pain in the pubic symphysis or sacroiliac region
• •Rib pain and postural strain as pregnancy progresses
• •Abdominal separation and reduced deep core control after delivery
• •Caesarean scar discomfort and restricted mobility of the scar area
• •Neck, shoulder, and wrist pain related to feeding and carrying
• •Gradual, safe return to exercise and lifting after childbirth
• •General deconditioning and fatigue-related movement changes

What the Program Involves

Care is provided one-to-one by a physiotherapist with experience in prenatal and postnatal rehabilitation. Your program is adapted to your stage of pregnancy or recovery, and may include:

• •Assessment — a focused history, posture and movement assessment, and screening for abdominal and pelvic floor function
• •Hands-on therapy — manual therapy and soft-tissue work for back, hip, and pelvic pain where indicated
• •Strengthening — progressive work for the deep abdominal wall, hips, and postural muscles
• •Movement and breathing coordination — retraining how the core and pelvic floor work together with daily movement
• •Education and body mechanics — practical guidance for lifting, carrying, feeding positions, and rest
• •Return-to-activity planning — a graduated plan for walking, exercise, and sport after delivery
• •Home program — short, realistic exercises that fit around newborn care

Rehabilitation Goals & Potential Benefits

• •Reduced pain in the back, hips, and pelvis
• •Improved strength and confidence with daily movement
• •Better core and postural control
• •Safer lifting, carrying, and feeding posture
• •A structured, gradual return to exercise and fitness
• •Improved tolerance for the physical demands of caring for a newborn

Recovery timelines vary considerably between individuals. Your physiotherapist will set goals with you and adjust the plan as your recovery progresses.

Assessment & Participation

The initial visit is usually 60 minutes and includes a detailed history of your pregnancy or delivery, a physical assessment, and a discussion of your goals. Where pelvic floor concerns are identified, you may be offered a referral to a pelvic health physiotherapist.

• •A physician referral is not required for physiotherapy in Ontario.
• •For postnatal care, we recommend waiting until you have been cleared by your physician or midwife, usually around six weeks after delivery, unless your concern requires earlier attention.
• •Comfortable clothing that allows movement is recommended.
• •Sessions are held in private treatment rooms.
• •Please let us know at the time of booking if you are pregnant, so we can allow appropriate time and positioning.

Coverage & Funding

• •Extended health insurance — direct billing available with most major carriers
• •Private pay
• •Statutory Accident Benefits (auto insurance), where concerns relate to a motor vehicle accident

This program is delivered by regulated health professionals and complements, rather than replaces, the care of your physician or midwife.