
If you've noticed a gap between your abdominal muscles, a bulge along the middle of your stomach, or a feeling that your core isn't quite as strong as it used to be, you may be experiencing diastasis recti. Diastasis recti is incredibly common during and after pregnancy, but it is also one of the most misunderstood conditions in postpartum recovery. Many women are told to avoid certain abdominal exercises, stop lifting weights, or focus on "closing the gap" between their abdominal muscles. Pelvic floor physical therapy can play an important role in helping women recover abdominal strength and function after pregnancy. At Activcore, our approach focuses on evaluating the entire abdominal and pelvic system rather than treating diastasis recti as simply a gap that needs to be closed. Treatment may include individualized abdominal strengthening, pelvic floor rehabilitation, breathing and pressure-management strategies, and progressive return to exercise. We work to help women rebuild strength and confidence, whether they are six weeks, six months, or several years postpartum.
Read MOREPelvic organ prolapse is more common than you think—and a diagnosis doesn't mean you have to stop exercising, lifting weights, or doing the activities you love. If you've ever noticed a feeling of heaviness in your pelvis, pressure in your vagina, or a sensation that something is "falling out," you may be experiencing pelvic organ prolapse (POP). While these symptoms can feel alarming, pelvic organ prolapse is a common condition, particularly following pregnancy, childbirth, and during the menopausal transition. Working with a pelvic health physical therapist can help you understand your specific type of prolapse, identify factors contributing to your symptoms, and develop a personalized plan to improve strength, function, and quality of life. Whether your goal is to lift weights, return to running, care for your children, or simply get through the day without pelvic pressure, treatment should support the activities that matter most to you.
Read MOREFeel like something is falling out of your vagina, especially when you're standing, exercising, or toward the end of the day? This sensation can be a sign of pelvic organ prolapse, including bladder prolapse (cystocele), and Low Pressure Fitness (LPF) may help you better manage pressure and support your pelvic floor. In this article, we'll explore common prolapse symptoms, how LPF may help, and how the interconnected anatomy of the pelvis—including the urachus and the concept of biotensegrity—can help us understand the body as a whole.
Read MORE"I just went to the bathroom, so why do I already feel like I have to go again?" If you have ever asked yourself that question, you are not alone. Maybe you know every bathroom location in your favorite stores. Maybe you avoid long car rides, skip exercise classes, or always use the restroom "just in case" before leaving home. Perhaps you have even been told that all your tests are normal, yet your bladder still feels unpredictable.
Read MOREPelvic organ prolapse (POP) is a condition that affects many women, especially after childbirth. It occurs when the pelvic organs—such as the bladder, uterus, or rectum—descend into or beyond the vaginal canal due to weakened pelvic floor muscles and connective tissue. While prolapse can feel overwhelming, the good news is that physical therapy can play a significant role in managing symptoms and helping women safely return to exercise.
Read MOREWhether you had your C-section scheduled in advance or changed plans quickly on delivery day, we are so happy you and your baby have made it here! Oftentimes, the labor and delivery process can be a blur. In this blog post, we will review some background information about C-sections, briefly discuss the procedure so you can understand the healing process more thoroughly, and then go over short-term implications to be aware of during the immediate two weeks following delivery.
Read MOREThe first month after childbirth is a critical time for healing and adjusting to life with your newborn. Your body has undergone incredible changes over the last nine months, and now it needs focused care and patience to support a smooth recovery. Here’s what to focus on during this first month to nurture your body, safeguard your health, and set yourself up for long-term wellness.
Read MOREPregnant and love lifting weights? Great news! A recent study found that heavy resistance training during pregnancy can be safe for experienced lifters. Women who continued to lift at least 80% of their one-rep max experienced low rates of pregnancy complications, and those who kept training saw fewer delivery issues. There was also no risk associated with urinary incontinence or pelvic organ prolapse in those who continued to lift heavy, contrary to popular belief that lifting heavy can cause these issues.
Read MOREPregnancy is a miraculous journey, marked by numerous transformations within a woman's body as it prepares to nurture and bring forth new life. These changes are not only fascinating but also crucial for the healthy development of the baby. Understanding the anatomical alterations that occur during pregnancy can provide insight into the incredible capabilities of the female body. It also helps us understand why you may have pain, stiffness, or other physical limitations and symptoms during pregnancy and afterward.
Read MOREPelvic organ prolapse is a condition that many women may not hear about until they experience symptoms or receive a diagnosis during a routine pelvic exam–and men during a routine physical exam. While it only affects a small percentage of men and women, it’s important to understand what it is, what causes it, and how it can be treated—especially as we age or after childbirth.
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