Physical therapy can be a valuable resource for managing and alleviating discomfort during pregnancy. While pregnancy is a beautiful and transformative experience, it can also bring about various physical discomforts due to the changes a the pregnant person’s body undergoes. A trained and experienced physical therapist can offer guidance and exercises to help relieve these discomforts. Here are some common pregnancy-related discomforts that physical therapy can address:

Low Back Pain: This is a common issue during pregnancy due to the changing posture and increased strain on the lower back. Physical therapists can teach exercises to strengthen the core and provide strategies to improve posture.

Pelvic Girdle Pain: This includes pain in the pelvic area, hips, and groin. Physical therapists can provide exercises to stabilize and strengthen the pelvic region.

Sciatica: The pressure on the sciatic nerve can lead to radiating pain in the lower back, buttocks, and legs. Physical therapists can help with stretches and exercises to alleviate this pain.

Round Ligament Pain: This is sharp, shooting pain that can occur on either side of the lower abdomen as the uterus expands. Physical therapists can recommend gentle exercises to ease this discomfort.

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: Some women experience hand and wrist discomfort during pregnancy. Physical therapists can provide exercises and techniques to reduce pain and improve hand mobility.

Swelling and Edema: Physical therapists can teach techniques to improve circulation and reduce swelling in the feet and ankles, such as elevation and gentle exercises.

Pelvic Floor Issues: Pregnancy can lead to pelvic floor problems, including incontinence. Physical therapists with expertise in pelvic floor health can offer exercises and strategies to address these concerns. See also our list of Pelvic Floor Care Providers.

Postural Issues: Pregnancy can alter a person’s posture. Physical therapists can provide guidance on maintaining proper posture to reduce discomfort and strain.

Breathing and Relaxation Techniques: Preparing for labor and delivery, physical therapists can teach breathing and relaxation techniques that can help manage pain and discomfort during pregnancy and labor.

Physical therapists play a vital role in helping people with postpartum recovery. The postpartum period, which typically refers to the six weeks following childbirth, can be a physically and emotionally challenging time for new parents. Physical therapists, particularly those specializing in women's/birthing peoples health or pelvic health, can provide guidance and treatments to promote recovery and improve overall well-being. Here's how physical therapists can assist with postpartum recovery:

Pelvic Floor Rehabilitation: Childbirth can place strain on the pelvic floor muscles, which may result in issues like incontinence or pelvic organ prolapse. Physical therapists can perform pelvic floor assessments and develop personalized exercises to balance these muscles, aiding in bladder and bowel control.

Diastasis Recti Rehabilitation: Diastasis recti is the separation of the abdominal muscles during pregnancy. Physical therapists can teach specific exercises to help close the gap and restore abdominal strength.

Core Strengthening: Rebuilding core strength is crucial after childbirth, and physical therapists can guide people through safe and effective exercises to regain core stability.

Postural Training: Physical therapists can provide guidance on proper posture and body mechanics to help alleviate aches and pains associated with breast/chestfeeding, carrying the baby, and other daily activities.

Scar Management: For people who've had a cesarean section or other surgical procedures, physical therapists can offer scar management techniques to minimize discomfort and improve scar tissue flexibility.

Pain Management: If you experience musculoskeletal pain after childbirth, a physical therapist can assess the issue and develop a plan to alleviate pain through various techniques, including manual therapy and exercise.

Return to Exercise: Physical therapists can provide guidance on when and how to safely return to physical activity, taking into account the unique needs and circumstances of each woman.

Feeding Support: For people experiencing pain or discomfort while breast/chestfeeding or bottle feeding, physical therapists can offer ergonomic advice and positioning techniques to reduce discomfort and support successful breastfeeding.

Overall Well-being: Physical therapists can address general postpartum issues, such as fatigue, stress, and depression, by providing education and emotional support or referring people to appropriate healthcare providers.

Education: Physical therapists can provide information on proper body mechanics, lifting techniques, and self-care practices to help prevent future injuries and discomfort.

In Vermont, as in most states in the United States, physical therapy is often covered by health insurance plans. However, the extent of coverage and the specific conditions may vary depending on the insurance provider, the type of plan you have, and the reason for seeking physical therapy. Here are some key points to consider:

Health Insurance Coverage: Many health insurance plans, including private health insurance, Medicaid, and Medicare, offer coverage for physical therapy services. However, the amount of coverage, copayments, deductibles, and the number of allowed sessions can vary.

Prior Authorization: Some insurance plans may require prior authorization before beginning physical therapy. This means you may need approval from your insurance company or a referral from a healthcare provider.

Medical Necessity: Insurance coverage for physical therapy often depends on the medical necessity of the treatment. If your healthcare provider determines that physical therapy is medically necessary for your condition, it's more likely to be covered.

In-Network Providers: Insurance plans often have a network of healthcare providers, including physical therapists. Visiting an in-network physical therapist can result in lower out-of-pocket costs.

Out-of-Pocket Costs: Even with insurance coverage, you may still be responsible for copayments, coinsurance, or deductibles, so it's essential to understand your plan's cost-sharing requirements.

Pre-Approval and Documentation: It's crucial for the physical therapist to document your condition and the necessity of treatment. Proper documentation can support insurance claims and coverage.

Limitations: Some insurance plans may have limitations on the number of sessions, duration of coverage, or specific conditions they will cover. Be sure to check your policy for these details.

To determine the specifics of your insurance coverage for physical therapy in Vermont, it's recommended to:

Contact Your Insurance Provider: Reach out to your insurance company to understand your specific coverage, including any limitations, requirements, and out-of-pocket costs.

Consult with Your Healthcare Provider: Discuss your treatment plan with your healthcare provider, and ask for their assistance in obtaining any necessary authorizations or referrals.

Verify In-Network Providers: If you want to minimize your out-of-pocket expenses, verify that the physical therapist you plan to see is in-network with your insurance plan.