PHYSIOTHERAPY IN PREGNANCY
JO RACLE (MCSP, BA Hons., BSc Hons.) OBSTETRIC PHYSIOTHERAPIST

Pregnancy should be a time of great joy and anticipation. However, for some women, the combination of weight gain, postural changes and softening of the ligaments can trigger symptoms of pain and degrees of disability. There has been a significant reported increase in the incidence of pelvic girdle pain (PGP) (or symphysis pubis dysfunction (SPD) as it is sometimes still known) amongst pregnant women. Lower and upper back pain, tailbone pain (coccydynia), carpal tunnel syndrome and rib pain are also frequently reported ante and postnatally.. A woman may be more vulnerable to aches and pains during pregnancy if she works late into the pregnancy; if she is an older mum; and if she has any pre-existing conditions which may be exacerbated by the growing bump.

All of these conditions can be managed with appropriate assessment, treatment and advice. Jo Racle is an Obstetric Physiotherapist who works at the Holistic Birthing Centre. Jo has been qualified for 14 years and has spent the past three years exclusively treating pregnant women, both in the NHS and privately. After an initial detailed full assessment, Jo will draw up a treatment programme specific to your needs. Jo uses gentle manual therapy techniques when indicated to encourage optimal joint alignment. She will advise you on how to modify your daily life to avoid promoting symptoms and how to best protect your changing body by strengthening the relevant muscle groups. Jo also practises acupuncture for pain relief in pregnancy.

Most importantly, in partnership with your midwife, advice will be given to manage labour and birth without compromising symptomatic joints. Jo will also ensure that your postnatal recovery is as smooth as possible, with the correct balance of rest, realignment and core strengthening.

For further details, please contact Jo on 07808 930243 or via email jracle@btinternet.com or via the Holistic Birthing Centre on 01606 871770.