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It is physically demanding to care for a newborn or toddler. This can be especially true for women whose bodies experienced many changes due to pregnancy. Parenting little ones requires lifting, twisting, carrying, holding, and feeding. This means using muscles in a way they are not accustomed to being used.
Doing these "new" activities many times a day, can lead to discomfort. It also can lead to repetitive stress or overuse injuries. New parents are at risk for developing neck pain and back pain. They also can develop carpal tunnel syndrome, tendonitis, or tennis elbow more often linked with playing sports than with parenting.
Why See a Physical Therapist?
Physical therapists can help to prevent many new parenting injuries. They also can treat the minor aches and pains or injuries that result from pregnancy and childbirth, and being a new parent.
Physical therapists are movement experts. They improve quality of life through hands-on care, patient education, and prescribed movement. You can contact a physical therapist directly for an evaluation. To find a physical therapist in your area, visit Find a PT.
Find a PT Near You!
For health tips and information about physical therapy for children, visit our health center for children.
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