Understanding Postpartum Neck Pain and How Chiropractic Care Can Help

Bringing a new life into the world is an extraordinary experience, but it also can come with

many physical and emotional challenges. One common issue many new parents suffer from is

neck and upper back pain, which can be particularly troubling during the postpartum period.

Understanding the causes of this pain and how chiropractic care can help is essential for a

smoother recovery.

Why Does Neck Pain Occur Postpartum?

Postpartum neck pain is often the result of several factors that coincide during and after

pregnancy:

1. Physical Strain During Pregnancy and Labor

Throughout pregnancy, a woman's body undergoes significant changes to accommodate the

growing baby. The weight gain, changes in posture, and loosening of ligaments due to hormonal

shifts can all contribute to musculoskeletal strain. Additionally, the physical demands of labor

and delivery can lead to muscle tension and misalignment, particularly in the neck and

shoulders.

2. Breastfeeding/Feeding and Holding Baby

Breastfeeding, though a beautiful bonding experience, often requires mothers to hold their

babies in specific positions for extended periods. Even if not breastfeeding, feeding baby with a

bottle also requires extended use and potential strain of the neck area. If not done with proper

support, this can lead to strain in the neck, shoulders, and upper back. The repetitive nature of

holding, feeding, and comforting the baby can exacerbate this strain, leading to chronic

discomfort.

3. Posture Changes

New mothers often adopt new postures when caring for their infants, such as leaning forward to

nurse, bending over cribs, or holding a baby on one side. These postures can create or worsen

muscle imbalances, leading to neck pain.

4. Sleep Deprivation

Sleep deprivation is a common issue for new parents and can further exacerbate neck pain.

When tired, people tend to have poor sleeping postures or unconsciously tense their muscles,

leading to increased discomfort and dysfunction.

How Chiropractic Care Can Help

Chiropractic care offers a non-invasive, drug-free approach to managing postpartum neck pain.

Here’s how chiropractic adjustments and related treatments can provide relief:

1. Spinal Function and Alignment

Chiropractors are trained to identify and correct spinal dysfunctions called vertebral subluxation

complexes (subluxation), which can be a significant cause of neck pain. By performing specific

adjustments, they can help restore proper movement and of the spine, reducing irritation of

nerves and alleviating muscle tension.

2. Muscle Relief

Beyond adjustments, chiropractors often use techniques such as soft tissue therapy, stretching

exercises, and ergonomic advice to help relieve muscle strain. These treatments can relax tight

muscles and promote better posture, reducing the likelihood of ongoing pain.

3. Postural Correction

Chiropractors can offer guidance on how to improve posture/alignment, especially when

breastfeeding or holding a baby. They may suggest specific exercises to strengthen the core

and upper body, helping to support better posture and reduce the risk of neck pain.

4. Holistic Approach

Chiropractic care often involves a holistic approach to health. Chiropractors may offer advice on

nutrition, sleep, and stress management—all critical factors in postpartum recovery. Addressing

these areas can further help reduce neck pain and promote overall well-being.

5. Safe and Natural Care

For new moms who are breastfeeding and may be concerned about taking medications,

chiropractic care offers a safe and natural alternative for managing pain. By focusing on the root

causes of discomfort rather than just masking symptoms, chiropractic care can provide long-

lasting relief.

Postpartum neck pain can be a significant challenge for new moms, but it doesn’t have to be a

permanent one. Chiropractic care offers an effective, natural solution to managing and

alleviating this pain. By addressing the root causes, such as spinal dysfunction and muscle

tension, chiropractic treatment can help new mothers (and fathers!) feel better, move better, and

fully enjoy the joys of motherhood.

If you’re struggling with neck pain after childbirth, consider consulting one of our chiropractors

who specializes in postpartum care. With the right care, you can find relief and regain your

strength and comfort during this important time in your life.

In health and Blessings,

Dr. Abbey

#CleChiro #PostpartumCare #NeckPainRelief #ChiropracticCare #NewMoms

#PostpartumHealth #MotherhoodJourney #HolisticHealth #NaturalPainRelief #SpinalHealth

#BreastfeedingChallenges #WellnessJourney #ChiropracticBenefits #PostpartumRecovery

Feeling Great After Baby's Arrival: How Chiropractic Care Can Benefit Postpartum Moms

First, congratulations on your new bundle of joy! Being a new mom can be both exciting and overwhelming, but it's important to remember to take care of yourself as well as your baby. Postpartum can bring a variety of physical changes and challenges, and chiropractic care can be an excellent way to address some of these issues. 

One thing that often goes unnoticed during the postpartum period is the toll that pregnancy and childbirth can take on a woman's body. Your spine and pelvis go through a tremendous amount of changes during pregnancy, and the process of childbirth can put even more stress on these areas.

This is where chiropractic care comes in. Chiropractors are trained to identify and correct restrictions in the spine and joints, which can alleviate pain, improve mobility, and promote overall wellness. By receiving regular chiropractic adjustments, new moms can experience a variety of benefits, such as:

• Relief from back and neck pain: The weight gain and changes in posture during pregnancy can cause a lot of strain on the back and neck, which can lead to pain and discomfort. Chiropractic adjustments can help realign the spine, reduce inflammation, and alleviate pain.

• Improved breastfeeding: Breastfeeding can be challenging, especially if you're experiencing pain or discomfort in your neck, back, or shoulders. Chiropractic care can help alleviate these issues, making it easier for you to breastfeed comfortably.

• Faster healing: Childbirth is a major event that can take a toll on your body. Chiropractic adjustments can help speed up the healing process by improving circulation and reducing inflammation.

• Better sleep: As a new mom, getting enough sleep is crucial. Chiropractic care can help reduce pain and tension in the body, making it easier for you to fall asleep and stay asleep.

• Improved mood: Postpartum depression is a real concern for many new moms. Chiropractic care can help promote the release of endorphins, which can improve your mood and overall sense of well-being.

It's important to note that chiropractic care is a safe and gentle form of healthcare that can be tailored to your specific needs. If you're experiencing pain or discomfort during the postpartum period, chiropractic care can be a game-changer for new moms during this time. By alleviating pain, promoting healing, and improving overall wellness, chiropractic care can help you navigate this incredible, but challenging, time with more ease and comfort.

In health, 

Dr. Shirley

Exercise & Breastfeeding

Mama you did it! Baby is here, this is the time for you to connect with your little one and your new self. It's time for healing, resting and new experiences. Are you breastfeeding? How’s everything going? Are you experiencing breastfeeding issues?  Working with a lactation consultant can make your breastfeeding journey a smoother and better one. 

When to start exercising? 

After the first few months, it is very common to play with the idea of returning to your exercise routine but not sure if you feel ready? Other questions might keep circling your mind, such as will my milk supply suffer if I exercise? Am I making things worse if I don’t do enough exercises? Can I start running? When should I start?

First of all, start when you feel ready!  That being 6 weeks postpartum or 3 months, take your time and listen to your body and your needs. Be comfortable, do not compare your recovery to others as every journey is different. 

Second of all, studies have shown that moderate exercises do not affect milk supply. Most mothers feel better when they get some movement and exercises, bringing more benefits for them and their baby. 

Here are a few tips for you to start: 

• Start slowly and gradually. Simple exercises such as diaphragmatic breathing can be your first movement.  

• Keep hydrated. 

• Go for walks with your baby. 

• Feed your little one or pump before starting the workout to decrease breast discomfort. Also, using a supportive bra can be helpful. 

• Look for postnatal exercise classes near your area. 

• Keep an eye on how you feel after workouts. This can be your guide if you are doing too much so soon. 

• Don’t forget to talk to your healthcare provider before starting any exercise routine. 

If you are experiencing leaking, pelvis pain, lower back pain/discomfort while exercising, our team of chiropractors, pelvic floor PT and massage therapists can help you! Talk to us, we might be able to help! 

Xoxo, 

Dr. Shirley

Breastfeeding Through Toddlerhood: A Mama's Reflection

For me, breastfeeding has created a special bond between me and my son and has been an important part of my motherhood. I have been blessed to be able to continue my breastfeeding journey with my little boy who is now over 3 years old. I understand and recognize that breastfeeding may not be the right fit for every family. There are many stresses and challenges that come with breastfeeding and each mother needs to make the choice that is best for her and her family. My heart goes out to all those who have struggled with breastfeeding.

Has it always been easy for us? Definitely not!! Did I think we would still be nursing at this point? Honestly, no, but am happy to still be able to support and comfort him this way.. I had no specific goals or plans beyond a year (after we had success for 6 months). Each mom and baby have different needs and challenges, but for us, this was a realistic goal. Nursing for us has certainly changed and evolved over time.

In the beginning, his tongue tie presented us with some small challenges which improved with laser frenectomy correction and chiropractic care. As he grew and developed, I saw how nursing helped him thrive. Being able to snuggle close with my little guy and nurture him has been so special. From providing nourishment in the early months to easing pains from boo-boos (big and small…and there have been many bumps and bruises along the way) to being his safe place and calming him when upset, knowing I was there to provide comfort and relief has been the most incredible, rewarding experience.

My son has always loved his “milky”—there were days he would nurse over 15 times a day! Some nursing sessions would last well over an hour, especially in the infant stage or before naps. Nursing on demand has worked for us, and I feel it has been my best way to support his needs as he grew. As he grew and was no longer in the newborn stage, feedings decreased and became easier.

After starting solids, he continued to love nursing and would still nurse several times a day. In 2020 when COVID hit, I was thankful I was able to continue sharing the benefits of the immune support from breastmilk. My body did not respond well to pumping and I often struggled to pump enough for more than a day or two supply. Unfortunately, due to COVID, I was laid off from the clinic where I was working. I was saddened to not be able to care for patients, but was relieved when I did not have to pump. Thinking back, I am not sure if we would still be in this breastfeeding journey if I had not been able to stay at home with him in 2020. He continued to nurse several times a day, especially before and after sleeping or for comfort.

The hardest period for us was during teething, which of course comes with its own challenges. At times it was so uncomfortable and even painful! As his latch changed and teeth became a factor, I definitely felt it. I even suffered from pretty severe clogged ducts which thankfully did not result in mastitis, thanks to the help and support from my lactation consultant and friend, Betsy. Thankfully, the times of discomfort didn’t last more than a few weeks and he figured out how to nurse without hurting his mama. I’m grateful that breastfeeding has been helpful for soothing him during these times and providing nutrients to support his growth.

Like most toddlers, my son is an active little guy and has had his share of bumps, bruises, and falls…including 2 trips to the ER and a broken bone. Being able to comfort him through nursing and support his healing has been such a beautiful experience. I am thankful to be able to help him in this way.

Nursing beyond the infant stage is not common in the US. I have also encountered differing opinions from people around me, but my focus is my son and our bond. Many are surprised to learn that it is very common for children to nurse until the age of 4 or 5 in many other countries (the world average is 4 years of age!). The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends breastfeeding through the age of 2. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) previously had recommended 6 months, but now has modified their recommendations to match the WHO to encourage and support nursing through age 2. Of course, this may not fit all families, however, I’m happy to see a shift in our communities to support women and their children. Each child and mother have different needs. Children will wean when the time is right for them.

I have learned so much about motherhood, my son, and myself through our breastfeeding journey. Our bond is so strong and so close, which I know has been enriched from our special time together. Some of the most important lessons have been about patience, especially for myself. I find that I am a lot more flexible and relaxed about life, as each feeding can be so different and his needs ever changing. Have there been times I’ve felt overwhelmed? For sure! While I so enjoy being able to nurse my son, there are times when I may have felt frustrated or being pulled to do something else. Nothing is as sweet as nursing my sweet babe to sleep and knowing he feels safe and secure laying on me. This often has resulted in hours of me sitting, nursing, or rocking my little guy. I have found myself thinking, “I should get up and be productive (with household chores or personal tasks),” or sometimes feeling overwhelmed that he needed me so much…but then I pause and remember: THIS is important! Nothing is more important than me being here for my child and this moment right now. 

I am so blessed to have the support of family and friends, especially my husband, during this journey along with so many wonderful colleagues, including lactation consultants. Without their help, breastfeeding would have not been as successful as it has been, nor would I have had this experience to be able to share with other mothers.

So what now? Only time will tell how long he will want to nurse. He is slowly weaning himself and becoming more independent. Some days I think this may be the day when instead of asking for his “mama milky” the moment he wakes up, he instead, rolls over, climbs out of bed, and starts chasing the cat and continues non-stop the rest of the day. But come bed time, he’s asking for his mama and his “milky.” I have been blessed to be able to still give him his “milky.” My heart is so full with love and pride that I’ve been able to support my little one both physically and emotionally through nursing these past few years. I know there will be a day when he doesn’t want or need his mama the way he does now. Until then, I’ll soak up the sweet moments we have and I will always treasure our special time together.

Postpartum Healing

Mama, your body has done one of the most remarkable things it could ever do - grow another human being! After waiting for 9 months, you are excited to be home with your baby and focus on them for the next few months. But don’t forget that you also need care.  

Your labor and delivery might have been smooth and easy, or long and hard. You experience a vaginal birth or had to undergo a cesarean. You labor for only hours or a few days. No matter what your birth experience looked like, your body has gone through some trauma and it needs to heal and recover. 

The fourth trimester is a very crucial period for a mothers' recovery. During the postpartum period your body will experience numerous changes starting from healing after giving birth to experience constant hormonal swings. Healing can take weeks to months, and that's okay. 

Remember, recovery can look different for each mama. It can be longer than expected, but that’s ok. It is your journey and only yours!

Essentials

Here is a list of a few essential things you’ll want to start buying during your pregnancy to make your postpartum recovery as easy and smooth as possible. 

• Maxi pads. 

• Ice packs. 

• Witch hazel pads. 

• Peri or squirt bottle. 

• Nursing bras. 

• Cotton underwear. 

• Nursing pads. 

• Stool softener. 

• Heating pad. 

• Sitz bath. 

Treatment/Care

In most cases, it takes up to a year to fully recover from childbirth. Acupuncture, chiropractic care and pelvic floor physical therapy can help speed the healing process and increase a healthy postnatal recovery. 

• It is ok to ask for help when needed. If you have the support, don’t be afraid to use it. 

• Make an appointment with a pelvic floor PT if you are experiencing pelvic pain, leakage, abdominal pain. 

• Go to birth circles in your area. Talking to other moms can be therapeutic. 

• Talk to your chiropractor about your physical discomfort. We can help and guide you to start your postpartum recovery. 

• If having breastfeeding issues, talk to a lactation consultant. 

• Get a massage when possible. You deserve it!

• Talk to a therapist specialized in postpartum. 

Quality time with your newborn is an important part of the journey, but don’t forget that your body needs healing as well. If you are experiencing discomfort after birth, let us know, we can help!

Mamas, do not hesitate to reach out! 

In health, 

Dr. Shirley

5 Tips to Prepare for Postpartum

There is so much emphasis on nurseries and “must haves” for baby, but what about for you, mama?  Giving birth is an incredible event and postpartum is no joke.  I am currently 39 weeks pregnant with my third baby, preparing for another postpartum experience.  With each baby, I have learned more about my needs and the needs of my family during this sacred time.  For this baby, we have bought very few things and while we have everything we need, we didn’t even bring out everything from storage.  We have spent much more time preparing for postpartum.  Here are 5 things I am preparing for this postpartum period:

Prepare to Rest

Are you familiar with the term “lying-in” period?  The lying-in period is a time for you to rest and bond with your baby after birth.  I have seen a few different suggestions for this:

·      5-5-5 Plan: 5 days in the bed, 5 days on the bed, 5 days around the bed.

This means: 5 days totally in the bed, meaning you should only be doing activities that can be done from your bed (feeding your baby, reading, napping, sleeping, watching tv, LOTS of skin to skin, etc.).  5 days on the bed, meaning majority of your time should be in the bed, but you can start moving around more.  The suggestions I have seen are 30 minutes up for every 2 hours in bed.  5 days around the bed, meaning no big outings!  Try to stay close to home, close to your bed, resting!

Sadly, our culture in America does not set us up for this and I did not honor the lying in period as I wish I would have after the birth of my older two children.  With this baby, I do plan to give the 5-5-5 Plan a try.  It is going to take lots of help and preparation, which is where the rest of my list stems from J  

·      1 Month or 40 Days (6 Weeks) of lying-in:

1 month (or 40 days/6 weeks) of staying in or close to the home resting as much as you can while feeding your baby, napping, sleeping, and lots of skin to skin!

Prepare to Heal

Whether you had a vaginal birth or a cesarean birth, please give yourself time and space to heal. 

·      After birth, the space between your anus and vagina (the perineum) will be sore and can typically take 3-6 weeks to heal.  Some people experience tearing of various degrees and will also be healing from tears.  Try using a perineal bottle (plastic bottle) with warm water and patting the area dry instead of wiping.  There are special ice packs (either purchased on your own, from the hospital, or in your homebirth kit) for the perineum or you can make your own “padsicle” using witch hazel, aloe vera, and herbs.  (Google “padsicle” and a ton of recipes will come up!).  Herbal sitz baths can also be lovely and those can also be used to create your own padsicle as well!  Earth Mama has an organic clean sitz bath that can be found online and in many stores!  I was gifted Earth Mama sitz bath and I have some homemade padsicles in my freezer ready to use in the coming weeks!

·      If you had a cesarean, your cesarean scar will be most sore the first few days after birth, but the soreness can last for a few weeks.  Be sure to follow your providers recommendations on caring for the incision and signs of infection to look out for.  Tips that no one told me after my cesarean birth are to hold the incision gently with my hand when going from sitting to standing, rolling in bed, coughing, sneezing, etc.  This helped tremendously with pain once I found it!   Once the scar is healed (typically around 6 weeks postpartum).   You can begin doing some cesarean scar mobilization.  Check out my cesarean scar mobilization video here. 

·      General aches and pains postpartum are common and can last anywhere from a few days to a few weeks.  Contact your care provider if you have any concerns about aches and pains you are feeling! 

o   Aches and pains in neck, back, or other joints:  if you can’t get to your chiropractor or they can’t get to you, you can try the following things:

§  Heating pad (or ice) on the affected area- whichever feels best!

§  Improve your posture when holding baby, breastfeeding/chestfeeding, and sleeping

o   Uterine pains aka “afterpains”: the uterus grows so much during pregnancy and contracts and relaxes postpartum in order to go back to its normal size.  Afterpains may feel like period cramps or may be stronger like labor contractions.  If you have given birth before, it is likely that your afterpains will be stronger.  Nipple stimulation (breastfeeding/chestfeeding and pumping) causes uterine contractions so you may notice an increase in afterpains when feeding your baby or pumping.  A heating pad may help relieve the discomfort from afterpains. 

·      There are a lot of changes that can happen to the breasts postpartum.  If you are breastfeeding, you should not be experiencing any pain with breastfeeding.  If you are, please please please reach out to a lactation consultant!  Engorged breasts can be common during the early postpartum period and be quite painful!  Engorged breasts tend to feel hard and the skin may also be warm.  Try feeding your baby or hand expressing some breastmilk.  You may find comfort in using a warm compress along your shoulder/above your breasts or below your breasts before expressing milk.  Breastfeeding is all about supply and demand so it can be a little dance between relieving engorgement and stimulating more milk production.  The more milk you express, the more milk your body will make.  Avoid wearing a tight bra if you are experiencing engorgement.  If you do not plan to breastfeed or discontinue breastfeeding, you may also experience engorgement.  It will resolve in a few days, however you still would want to avoid clogged ducts (that could potentially turn into mastitis) so I also would suggest reaching out to a lactation consultant.  Overtime, your body will stop making milk if you don’t breastfeed or pump. 

·      Constipation is common postpartum.  There are various factors that play a role in this: weak abdominal muscles, pain medications that you may be on, dehydration, and nerves (it is common to be afraid to poop postpartum!).  Try eating nutrient high-fiber dense foods and drinking lots of water.  It’s not a bad idea to keep a stool softener around, too.  If you are breastfeeding, be sure that what you are taking is safe for breastfeeding!

Prepare to Nourish Yourself

This is one thing that my husband and I really did right before the births of our first two babies.

·      Meal trains are a great way to organize home-cooked meals delivered to your door by loved ones.  They can be created on Facebook pages, emails, or even by the Meal Train website!  You can set one up for yourself or have a friend take the lead.  Be sure to tell your loved ones if you have any food sensitivities or allergies. 

o   Note:  this option may not be the best if you or your family members have food sensitivities, unless your loved ones are versed in cooking to accommodate those.

·      Crock pot meals.  Have you seen New Leaf Wellness?  This takes meal prepping to a whole other level.   This blogger has a meal plans that provide a grocery list, recipes, and labels for freezer Crock Pot meals.  All of the ingredients go into a labeled freezer zip-lock bag and frozen until used.  Pick out a meal the night before, let it thaw, and put it into your Crock Pot to have a nice hot meal in 6-8 hours.  For me personally, this was the best thing I did to plan for postpartum.

o   Note:  this will save you time and money in the long run, but requires a lot of time to prepare.

·      Freeze meals, soups, and stews ahead of time.  During the last couple of months leading up to your guess date, make a little extra of what you are cooking every once and a while and freeze half.  Chili’s, soups, stews, and bone broth are great to have on hand.  You can also do this with homemade breads (banana bread), egg casseroles, pot roasts, etc.  Look into proper preparation to freeze each of these and be sure to label everything with the freeze date.   

o   Note:  this option is great for those who meal plan!

·      Stock up on favorites.  If there are household favorites (think almond butter, Rx bars, coconut oil), grab some extra at the store leading up to your guess date so that you don’t run out in the first month or two postpartum.  Think about what quick snacks you would like to have on hand, especially if you are planning to breastfeed. 

Preparing for this postpartum period, we did a mix of our favorite Crock Pot meals from New Leaf Wellness and freezing meals ahead of time!  My goal was to have 30 meals + muffins and pancakes for quick breakfasts in the freezer before baby came.  I haven’t done a count lately, but we will see what we have before he or she does arrive :)

Prepare to Say “Yes” to Help

Things I am planning to say “no” to during my lying-in period?  Laundry, housework, and cooking meals.  We will have anywhere between 15-30 meals in our freezer that my husband can pop into the crock pot or into the oven to ensure our family has nutritious meals to enjoy. 

I am planning on letting friends and family come over and play with my “big kids” and help out with household chores. 

Prepare Your Postpartum Team

Remember how I said America does not set us up for a lying in period postpartum?  Depending on how your labor and birth went, how your baby is doing, and how breastfeeding/chestfeeding is going, you may need to leave the house for appointments or finding yourself looking for referrals.  I suggest building your referral list during pregnancy.  Some people to consider having on your postpartum team (outside of your midwife/OB and pediatrician):

·      Chiropractor

·      Pelvic Health Physical Therapist

·      Lactation Consultant

·      Pediatric Dentist (in case of tongue/lip tie)

·      Craniosacral Therapist

·      Postpartum Doula

·      Mental Health Therapist

Wouldn’t it be amazing if there were providers that came to your home?  Fortunately, in Cleveland, there are a few pediatricians, chiropractors, and lactation consultants that will come to your home during the immediate postpartum period. 

Here are a few:

·      Primrose Newborn Care:  Dr. Madden is a neonatologist that does newborn well-baby medical home visits

·      MamaBird Hendry: Madison is a breastfeeding educator offering in home breastfeeding support! 

·      Cleveland Chiropractic and Integrative Health Center: yepp!  Our office provides in-home care for mamas and babies after birth! 

How are you preparing for postpartum? 

Xoxo,

Dr. Candace

Questions on preparing for postpartum?  When Dr. Candace returns from leave, she will be offering custom consults on prenatal support, labor support, and postpartum preparation.  Send her an email to get on her waitlist.

When to See a Chiropractor Postpartum

A common question our pregnant patients ask is “when can I or when should I come in after baby is born for my postpartum check-up.” The simple answer is: when you are ready. While getting checked soon after giving birth is recommended, that may be a different time for each woman. Some may want to get checked on their way home from the hospital. Others may need to rest and heal for a few days or weeks. Some choose to do a lying-in period at home for several days or weeks. Typically, our patients know when they are ready to be checked (whether sooner or later); this is also something your chiropractor can discuss with you. You can also contact your chiropractor after baby is born to go over any concerns and determine when would be best for your postpartum check.

So why would mom need to be checked after giving birth? Don’t all the issues from pregnancy go away after baby is born? Short answer: no! Here are some common reasons to be checked postpartum:

1.      Sacrum/pelvis may shift during labor: giving birth is not easy! It is a whole-body effort. Whether a woman has a vaginal birth or a cesarean, her pelvis and sacrum experience stress and can shift. Especially during vaginal births, position and stress can strain muscles and ligaments of the low back and pelvis region. Joint restriction and discomfort postpartum is common and adjustments may help improve position and movement and reduce pain and tension. Long or difficult labor can even rotate or dislocate the coccyx/sacrum (tailbone).

2.      Neck/back pain: Some women may have experienced neck and back pain during pregnancy; often this persists postpartum. Some women who may not have had pain or tension during pregnancy may develop issued postpartum from labor/birth or from the changes of caring for their new little one. Nursing and feedings may strain neck and back muscles. Sleep is disturbed and may cause aches and pains.

3.      Pelvic floor check: Every woman postpartum should have their pelvic floor assessed. Your chiropractor can help identify issues or imbalances and recommend/referral pelvic floor physical therapy at the appropriate time (and it may be sooner than 6 weeks postpartum!)

4.      Diastasis assessment: EVERY woman (yes, every) will develop diastasis recti (separation of the front abdominal muscles (aka rectus abdominis)). This slowly heals in the weeks following giving birth. Various factors including breastfeeding, previous injury or weaknesses (especially in the core), pelvic floor dysfunction, back pain, and scoliosis can affect the severity and timeline of healing. Your chiropractor can assess the degree of the separation, begin care for the back, pelvis, and supporting soft tissue, and recommend safe, healing movements/exercises at the appropriate time. Pelvic floor physical therapy is also essential to help heal diastasis recti. Your chiropractor can refer you to a pelvic floor PT as part of your postpartum care.

5.      Nursing support: While breastfeeding is normal and natural, it is not easy! Many women and their babies struggle at first (and some have issues that develop months later). Chiropractic care helps with alignment and optimal function of the nervous system which may help with posture/comfort while nursing and appropriate hormone regulation for milk production. Your chiropractor can also help identify tongue and lip ties and make appropriate referrals/recommendations for treatment and support which can help baby and you reach your breastfeeding goals.

6.      Nutritional support: Postpartum nutrition is very important, especially for nursing moms. During pregnancy, essential nutrients may have been depleted to support baby’s growth. Postpartum is a time for healing. Your chiropractor can provide information about optimal nutrition and help identify nutritional deficiencies. Certain foods, herbs, or supplements may be beneficial to help with specific needs for healing as well. Your chiropractor can make recommendations and support your healing.

7.      Soft tissue care and support: During pregnancy soft tissue changes and stretches. It undergoes even more stress and change during labor. Following up with a chiropractor postpartum may help reduce soft tissue tension and help with the healing process. Your chiropractor can also identify weaknesses and imbalances in your neck, back, core and other parts of your body and provide recommendations for healing (and when to safely start certain movements or exercise).

Being a mom can be amazing yet challenging. Your body goes through so many changes and has different needs, especially postpartum. Be sure to take time for yourself and take care of yourself. At Cleveland Chiropractic, we are here to support you throughout your motherhood journey. We understand that every mom is postpartum, albeit at different stages or phases of healing and progress. Remember: healing takes time. Be patient and give yourself grace. You are doing a great job, mama! Remember, we are here for you when you need us.

In health,

Dr. Abbey

(216) 952-3830

http://clechiropractic.com

Postpartum Journey

We all read and see in the movies that the postpartum period is a beautiful time for the mother to bond with their child, heal and rest. And it is completely true! But in reality, it can be extremely overwhelming. Expectant mamas spend so much time during their prenatal period preparing for birth, but some of them don’t have any idea how to prepare for their postpartum.

It is difficult to know what you will experience during those first few weeks, but planning as much as possible can be helpful. It can make a huge difference in your mood, stress levels and relationships during the first few weeks with a newborn. It might also help you with reducing chances of postpartum depression or other mood disorders. 

These are a few tips on how to plan for a positive postpartum experience and can be helpful for you: 

• Write down a plan. It can be something as simple as a to do list to a more comprehensive plan. The idea is to discuss with the people in your life. 

• Prioritize your needs!!!

• Set boundaries with your family and friends. They will understand!

• Ask for help. You don’t have to do this alone and there is nothing to be embarrassed about asking for help. 

• Try to target one task at a time. Mama, it is not that you can’t do it but know that you don’t have to do everything at the same time. Give yourself space.

• Hire a postpartum doula. If you don’t have family/friends nearby, a doula could help you with your transition to motherhood. 

Don’t forget to have at hand some of these supplies that will help you during those first few weeks: maternity pads, ice packs for soreness, large breathable underwear, nipple shield, food!

The Physical, Emotional and Mental Struggle 

Did you know postpartum symptoms can linger for years if left untreated? The reality is that evidence suggests many women experiencing postpartum symptoms such as pelvic floor dysfunction, physical pain/discomfort and postpartum depression/anxiety may go undiagnosed for months! Yes, months!

Ongoing care after the 6 weeks postpartum mark is extremely important. Postpartum health issues can surface after your first postpartum visit! You will experience physical and emotional highs and lows, trying to find balance during your new time as a mom. It is important for you to recognize when personal and professional help is needed. 

Here are some of important symptoms to be attentive at during your transition:

• Urinary leakage (sneezing, coughing, jumping, walking)

• Constant pelvic pain/back pain

• Constipation/Diarrhea

• Hormonal shifts

• Sore breast/nipples 

• Fatigue

• Anxiety

• Depression

• Or any other symptoms that do not feel right to you!

At times it might be difficult for moms to prioritize their care while  taking care of a newborn and adjusting to motherhood. Don’t forget it takes a village and it’s ok if you can’t do it all by yourself! 

Important Resources

It is important to have at hand useful information about healthcare providers that could help you make your transition to motherhood one smoother and positive! Here are a few useful tips and resources that we think you could benefit from: 

• It is ok to ask for help when needed. If you have the support, don’t be afraid to use it. 

• Make an appointment with a pelvic floor PT if you are experiencing pelvic pain, leakage, abdominal pain. 

• Go to birth circles in your area. Talking to other moms can be therapeutic. 

• Talk to your chiropractor about your physical discomfort. We can help and guide you to start your postpartum recovery. 

• If having breastfeeding issues, talk to a lactation consultant. 

• Get a massage when possible. You deserve it!

• Talk to a therapist specialized in postpartum. 

Remember, recovery can look different for each mama. It can be longer than expected, but that’s ok. It is your journey and only yours! Quality time with your newborn is an important part of the journey, but don’t forget that your mind and body needs healing as well!

“You Ate Your WHAT?!”: Placenta Encapsulation

Placenta encapsulation is the steaming and dehydrating of the placenta after birth. 

What is a placenta?

A placenta is a temporary organ that your body develops during pregnancy!  It attaches to the wall of the uterus and connects to your baby via the umbilical cord.  The placenta filters waste and toxins from the blood and supplies nutrients to the baby, including oxygen.   It produces hormones necessary for your baby to grow. 

The placenta stores gonadotropin, prolactin, oxytocin, thyroid stimulating hormone, cortisone, interferon, prostaglandins, hemoglobin, and gammaglobulin.  The following nutrients are found in the placenta: iron, vitamin B6, vitamin E, corticotropin-releasing hormone, and cytocines.

Why encapsulate your placenta?

Benefits of placenta encapsulation include:

·      Restores balance of the body

·      Decreases risk of “baby blues”

·      Increases energy

·      Lessens postpartum bleeding

·      Replenishes iron lost during childbirth

·      Helps uterine involution (shrinking)

What is the process like?

The method I prefer to use is the Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) method.  This process is a two-step process.  The blood is drained from the placenta and the membranes are removed.  The placenta is steamed with herbs to enhance the effects.  It is the sliced and prepared for dehydration. 

After dehydration, the dried placenta is ground into a fine powder and put into tasteless odorless capsules.  You can expect to get between 100-200 capsules in a placenta, depending on the size. 

I do limit the number of placenta encapsulation clients I take.  If you have an interest, please send an inquiry to our front desk and they can help you move forward with the process!

In health + wellness,

Candace

Postpartum Care: Coping with Body Image

Postpartum is a period of adjustment and healing for the mother. During this time, you will bond with your baby but you may also experience body changes.  Body pain, urinary incontinence and/or muscle tension during your fourth trimester can be present. The cause? It could have been a strained muscles during delivery, pelvic floor muscle weakness, pregnancy hormones (loose ligaments), breastfeeding positions, holding/lifting baby and core muscles instability/weakness. 

After a few weeks, some of these issues may resolve. But what if you are still suffering from back pain for weeks (even months!) after giving birth? Experiencing urinary incontinence when exercising, laughing or running? Feeling constant body tension and anxiety? If you say yes to any of these questions,  know that you are not alone.

It is quite common to experience some of these symptoms after either vaginal or cesarean birth.  However, it does not mean that it is normal and that you have to deal with it because you just had a baby. Know that you do have options! 

The following treatments can help you make your postpartum journey more enjoyable:

• Chiropractic care - chiropractic adjustments restore joint mobility reducing restrictions in your spine and pelvis relieving any nerve pressure present. When your body is working  and moving properly, it can speed your recovery and healing.  This is a plus during the fourth trimester!

• Massage therapy - postpartum massages may help to relax your muscles, increase blood circulation and lower stress hormones, bringing stress relief. Massage can help during your emotional transition bringing relaxation to your life. 

• Acupuncture - acupuncture treatment can be beneficial with stress management, pain relief, promotion of healthy digestion and improved quality of sleep. 

• Pelvic floor PT  - Specialized PT can assess for any pelvic floor muscle tightness or weakness that can be causing your urinary incontinence and back pain. Pelvic PT will guide you in the right direction. 

Reach out if you are experiencing pain, discomfort or just looking for additional postpartum care information. Your body may need a little push to get back in balance. We can help! 

Cleveland Chiropractic & Integrative Health Center

(216) 952-3830

www.clechiropractic.com

Laugh without Leaking

Having a great time with friends laughing about the latest crazy adventures of motherhood? Have you ever laughed so hard that you “peed your pants’? While that is a common expression and experience for many women, it is not “normal.” Many women think that just because they have been pregnant or that they are getting older that urinary incontinence is a normal fact of life that they just have to live with. After all, it happens to everyone, right?

Urinary Incontinence (which is the leaking of urine that you cannot control) is not a normal part of aging or a normal lasting side effect of pregnancy or childbirth. Two of the most common types of urinary incontinence include Stress Urinary Incontinence and Urge Urinary Incontinence. Stress Incontinence is leaking when you are walking, bending, lifting, sneezing, coughing, or laughing. Urge Urinary Incontinence which is the sudden “urge” to urinate even if your bladder is not completely full. Having both of these types of symptoms? That is called Mixed Urinary Incontinence -yes, the “best” of both worlds- leaking with activity and /or feeling of a strong urge to urinate frequently.

Despite these symptoms being common, (nearly 1 out of 3 women have some type of incontinence symptoms during their lifetime) there are many things that can be done to decrease or eliminate incontinence, especially if treated early.

*Lifestyle changes can be extremely effective- looking at behavioral factor and nutrition can decrease symptoms.

*Bladder Retraining strategies- no “just in case” going to the bathroom, keeping a bladder diary for a few days.

*Looking at exercise, movements and lifting patterns- increased intraabdominal pressure can put pressure on pelvic floor muscle causing increased leakage

*Pelvic Health Physical Therapy to address any muscle weakness or tightness in Pelvic floor causing urinary leakage.

If you have these symptoms and are ready to address them, come see our physical therapist, Chrissy, for a physical therapy evaluation. Chrissy partners with each client to develop an individualized holistic approach to help you mange and eliminate your incontinence issues so you have the freedom to laugh as hard as you want- without fear!

Appointments with Chrissy can be scheduled online via our website or by calling 216-952-3830.