Case Studies
Take a look at how we help our patients to achieve their goals, and reclaim their freedom
Case Study 04
Patient’s delivery type:
Caesarean section
Complications:
1. Rectus diastasis
2. Urinary incontinence
3. Pelvic girdle and lower back Pain
Background
Sarah, a 29-year-old first-time mother, presented to Powerbase Physiotherapy with multiple postnatal complications. She underwent a caesarean section six weeks prior and was experiencing significant issues including rectus diastasis (abdominal muscle separation), urinary incontinence, pelvic girdle pain and lower back pain.
Initial Feelings
Before visiting Powerbase Physiotherapy, Sarah felt overwhelmed and distressed. She was unable to engage in routine activities or care for her newborn as she had hoped.
The abdominal separation caused her core to feel weak, making it difficult to perform simple tasks like lifting her baby or getting out of bed. Urinary incontinence led to feelings of embarrassment and frustration, while persistent pelvic and lower back pain significantly affected her mobility and quality of life.
Treatment Goals
1. Reduce Rectus Diastasis: Strengthen the abdominal muscles to minimize separation.
2. Manage Urinary Incontinence: Improve pelvic floor muscle strength and control.
3. Alleviate Pelvic Girdle and Lower Back Pain: Increase stability and reduce pain through targeted exercises and manual therapy.
4. Improve Overall Functionality: Enable Sarah to return to her daily activities and care for her newborn with ease and confidence.
Treatment Plan
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Comprehensive evaluation of abdominal separation.
Assessment of pelvic floor muscle strength.
Postural analysis and evaluation of lower back and pelvic alignment.
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Transverse Abdominis Activation: Sarah was taught specific exercises such as pelvic tilts and gentle core engagements to activate the transverse abdominis muscle.
Gradual Progression: Incorporation of more challenging Pilates based exercises to improve strength.
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Kegel Exercises: Guided practice of Kegel exercises to enhance pelvic floor strength and control.
Biofeedback: Advice on biofeedback tools to use at home to ensure correct muscle activation and provide visual cues.
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Massage and Mobilization techniques: Targeted manual therapy techniques to alleviate tension, to improve alignment and relieve discomfort.
TENS Therapy: Use of Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS) for pain relief.
Visceral Manipulation: Gentle massage of abdominal organs to improve mobility and function, beneficial for post-cesarean healing.
Scar massage techniques: Targeted massage and mobilisation techniques to break up scar tissue and adhesions to improve discomfort and appearance of scar.
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Posture Correction: Education on maintaining proper posture during various activities.
Body Mechanics Training: Techniques for safe lifting, carrying, and other daily activities to prevent strain.
Progress and Outcomes
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During her treatment at Powerbase Physiotherapy, Sarah felt increasingly hopeful and empowered. The physiotherapists provided her with a clear plan and continuous support. She appreciated the personalised approach and the emphasis on education, which helped her understand her condition and the rationale behind each exercise and technique.
Sarah found the exercises challenging yet manageable, and she noted gradual improvements in her core strength and pelvic floor control. The manual therapy and massage sessions brought significant relief to her pelvic and lower back pain, making everyday movements more comfortable.
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After a comprehensive treatment program spanning 12 weeks, Sarah reported significant improvements. Her rectus diastasis reduced from a 4-finger width to 1-finger width, demonstrating considerable healing. Urinary incontinence episodes decreased markedly, boosting her confidence. Pelvic girdle and lower back pain were significantly reduced, allowing her to move with greater ease and less discomfort.
Sarah could engage in activities she previously avoided, such as lifting her baby and going for walks. Her overall functionality improved, and she felt more like herself again. Sarah expressed immense gratitude towards the team at Powerbase Physiotherapy for their dedication and support during her recovery journey.
Testimonial
“I'm currently doing my postnatal pelvic rehabilitation and it's been really great so far. Charné is extremely personable, organised, efficient and effective! As someone who likes gadgets, I like how modern her recommendations are with apps and technologies :) Also, she's been very understanding and welcoming with my situation as I sometimes have to bring my baby in for some sessions. The studio is also really nice and quite close to where I live in Strassen. Highly recommended!”