Returning to the Upright Position: Restoring Posture After Baby

Physical Therapist Linnae Wagner evaluates her patient's movement as she bends backwards and then checks to see if her shoulders fall over her hip.

Pregnancy brings about so much change—mostly wonderful changes, but a few that are less so. Sitting slouched with hunched shoulders feels comfortable. Standing up a little less straight may seem minor. However, if left unaddressed, poor posture will result in significant added stress on the body over time. Think of the difference in posture between one's own parents. Does your father stand straighter than your mother? Ever wonder why? What postural change did your mother undergo that your father did not? Ah-hah!

Prenatal Care Tips that May Surprise You

Taking care of a new baby starts well before the baby is born. Good prenatal care – including a healthy diet, exercise, and abstaining from foods and activities that can harm the baby – helps ensure the health of both the mother and the newborn.

Most mothers-to-be already have a basic idea of how to eat well and encourage healthy fetal development. They know to follow the food pyramid and eat plenty of nutrients; to take nutritional supplements provided by their obstetricians, including folic acid; and to abstain from drugs and alcohol while pregnant and nursing. But doctors and nutritionists can give their pregnant patients an even more interesting list of pregnancy care tips and advice – guaranteed to grab your attention.

The Health Wire

Sweet Dreams

Sleep deprivation can cause problems much more severe than yawning and fatigue. Studies show that people who don't get seven to eight hours of sleep per night have lower immune function, higher blood pressure, and are at a greater risk for obesity.

Healthy sleep also helps commit learned information to memory, improves mood and daily functioning, and increases safety by contributing to fewer automobile accidents. And of course, people who get sufficient sleep have more energy during the day.

Sleep is especially important for pregnant women. A recent study found that pregnant women who slept less than six hours per night were more likely to have longer labors and cesarian section deliveries. If you're tired during the day, don't reach for a cup of coffee - consider getting a good night's rest!

Do you know a loved one who suffers from pain?

Call TCPC at 952-841-2345