Caesarean Section (C-Section) Recovery: How physiotherapy helps
A Caesarean Section (C-section) is a major surgical procedure where your baby is delivered through an incision made in the mother’s abdominal wall and uterus. The procedure involves carefully cutting through or separating several layers of tissue, including the skin, fat, abdominal muscles, and the wall of the uterus. While C-sections are common and safe, your body has been through major abdominal surgery and needs dedicated time and support to heal completely.
Common Post-C-Section Physical Challenges
Even with a smooth surgery, the journey back to full strength involves addressing several physical changes:
Pregnancy already stretches the abdominal muscles and connective tissue. The surgical incision further impacts these areas, often leading to:
- Core weakness and a feeling of instability.
- Reduced support for your spine and pelvis.
Though you didn’t have a vaginal birth, your pelvic floor muscles still bore the entire weight of your pregnancy for months. This sustained pressure can lead to:
- Pelvic floor weakness and possible urinary leakage.
- A sensation of heaviness or ‘dropping’ in the pelvis.
Healing involves the formation of scar tissue. This can cause:
- Tightness, numbness, or hypersensitivity around the incision site.
- Deeper internal adhesions that may restrict movement or cause pain in the lower back, abdomen, or around the scar.
It is natural to hunch forward or guard your abdomen to protect the healing scar. Over time, this protective posture can cause secondary pain:
- Low back, neck, or shoulder pain.
- Reduced muscle tone due to limited exercise and the demands of newborn care.
The diaphragm, essential for both breathing and core stability, can be affected by post-surgical pain or tightness. This can lead to:
- Shallow breathing, which reduces oxygen flow and slows overall recovery.
- Reduced coordination within the deep core system.
Your Guided Recovery with ESIC Physiotherapy
At ESIC, we provide specialised support through every stage of your C-section recovery, from the first few days postpartum to months later.
We guide you through the critical early recovery period, focusing on safety and initial healing:
- Safe Movement: Learning gentle techniques for getting out of bed, lifting your baby, and comfortable feeding positions.
- Gentle Exercises: Starting breathing and circulatory exercises to promote healing and prevent stiffness.
- Core Reconnection: Safely initiating pelvic floor and deep core muscle activation.
- Pain & Scar Management: Guidance on managing pain, swelling, and early wound/scar care.
Once cleared by your doctor, we focus on rebuilding core function:
- Core Assessment: Using our Real-Time Ultrasound (RTUS) to accurately assess the function of your deep core and pelvic floor muscles.
- Graded Strengthening: Developing a safe, progressive exercise plan to restore deep core strength and endurance.
- Posture & Balance: Working to correct habitual postures and restore body balance.
- Diastasis Recti: Addressing any abdominal muscle separation (Diastasis Recti) that may be present.
We ensure your scar heals optimally and your body is ready for daily life:
- Scar Massage Techniques: Performing and teaching effective scar massage to reduce tightness, adhesions, and pain, and to improve circulation.
- Functional Posture: Optimizing your body mechanics for everyday tasks, such as feeding, lifting, and baby care, to reduce strain.
Essential Everyday Tips for Your Recovery
Remember, you’ve had major surgery. Be kind to your body—healing takes time.
- Movement: Always roll onto your side before sitting up or getting out of bed.
- Protection: Hold a small pillow gently over your tummy when you cough, sneeze, or strain on the toilet.
- Support: Use pillows to keep your back and arms supported while feeding your baby.
- Help: Ask for and accept help with lifting, chores, and older children.
- Rest: Prioritise rest and sleep whenever possible.
Book your appointment today or call to discuss the best options for you.
Or for more on this visit our Women’s Health section.
