Motherhood is a journey of healing and growth, not just for moms but for their babies, too. The postpartum period is often viewed as a time for a mother to recover from pregnancy and birth, but what’s often overlooked is how that recovery directly influences her baby’s development. At Foundation Physical Therapy, we take a unique, integrated approach—because when moms heal well, their babies thrive.
1. Postpartum Healing Affects How You Interact with Your Baby
Newborns rely on their caregivers for movement, comfort, and exploration of their environment. If a mom is experiencing pain, core weakness, or pelvic floor dysfunction, she may adjust how she holds, carries, and interacts with her baby. These small compensations can lead to limited movement opportunities for her baby, which can affect motor development.
For example, if a mom avoids certain positions due to discomfort, she may not place her baby in tummy time as often, limiting their ability to build strength and coordination. Addressing postpartum healing and recovery early helps moms feel stronger and more confident, allowing them to provide the best support for their baby’s physical growth.
2. A Strong Mom Means Better Support for Baby’s Motor Development
Babies develop motor skills through interaction and movement, and a mother’s physical strength plays a role in that. If a mom struggles with back pain, core weakness, or pelvic instability, she may not be able to comfortably hold her baby in different positions, wear her baby in a carrier, or spend time on the floor playing—all of which are essential for baby’s development.
Through targeted postpartum therapy, moms can regain strength and stability, making it easier to move freely and interact with their baby in ways that support healthy motor development.
3. How Breastfeeding and Holding Positions Impact Baby’s Alignment
Feeding—whether through breastfeeding or bottle-feeding—requires repetitive positions that can contribute to tightness or imbalances in both mom and baby. If a mother experiences discomfort while nursing, she may unconsciously shift her posture, which can lead to a baby preferring one side over the other. This, in turn, can contribute to issues like torticollis (tightness in a baby’s neck) or head shape asymmetries.
A physical therapist who treats both mom and baby can assess feeding posture, improve maternal comfort, and ensure that baby is positioned optimally for feeding, reducing the risk of developmental concerns.
4. Movement and Recovery Set the Stage for Future Health
The way a mom moves after birth influences how she recovers—and how she engages with her baby. Addressing core strength, posture, and pelvic floor function allows moms to return to everyday activities with ease, reducing the risk of chronic pain and ensuring that they can keep up with their growing child’s needs.
At the same time, ensuring a baby moves well from the start helps prevent motor delays and allows for smoother progression through developmental milestones. A therapist who understands both maternal and infant needs can create a treatment plan that fosters long-term well-being for both.
Experience the Benefits of Treating Mom and Baby Together
At Foundation Physical Therapy, we specialize in helping moms and babies heal together. Our comprehensive approach ensures that you recover fully while giving your baby the best start in life.
Are you ready to rock pregnancy, postpartum, and motherhood? Book an appointment today and experience the benefits of holistic postpartum and infant care.
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