Beyond the Six-Week Checkup: Margaret Cordes
Margaret Cordes shares their postpartum recovery journey after experiencing chronic pain and challenges returning to exercise following the birth of their two children. This story highlights the importance of recognizing that postpartum recovery extends beyond the six-week checkup and how pelvic health physical therapy can help individuals rebuild strength, confidence, and connection with their bodies.
📍 Crystal Lake, IL USA
My Story
After having 2 babies 17 months apart, I thought that the chronic pain I was experiencing was just "part of being a mom". It was when I couldn't even do basic strength exercises without injuring myself that I knew I needed help. My PHPT changed my life, and I am extremely grateful for her help in my postpartum recovery.
Before Pelvic Health Physical Therapy
While my 6-week check-up was normal, my midwife had mentioned that some women find PHPT helpful and told me to let her know if I had any issues over the next several months. Around 6 months postpartum, I was feeling very defeated because despite receiving regular chiropractic care, I had terrible back, neck, and jaw pain. Additionally, while I was eager to get back into shape, every time I would try to resume a workout routine, no matter how much I modified my workouts or scaled back on the weights I used, I would end up injuring myself. I became afraid to even attempt a lunge or squat because I knew I'd end up hurting my hip. It was at this point that I knew I needed a referral for PHPT.My Pelvic Health Physical Therapy Journey
When I first made my initial appointment, I was told that the typical treatment lasts at least 6 weeks, but within the first few weeks, it became clear that I would need a longer rehabilitation period. My issues stemmed from a twisted sacrum, but the domino effect of issues affected multiple body parts. My entire right side of my leg was very weak, and subsequently, my left side was overcompensating and very tight. The imbalance in my pelvis was also affecting my spine's alignment. That, coupled with weakness in my mid-back, was causing my mid-back, shoulder, neck, and jaw pain. I worked with my PT for 12 weeks, diligently doing my homework every day. My PT was incredible. Her approach seemed intuitive while also exact. She listened to my symptoms and feedback and was able to zero in on my problem areas to help strengthen me on a foundational level.Where I Am Today
Pelvic health PT has changed my life. Not only do I have no pain in my back for the first time in YEARS, but I am also able to care for my two small children and adopt a workout routine without the fear of hurting myself. I feel more confident while exercising as the experience has also increased my body awareness and improved my form while doing strength exercises. I have RAVED to my friends about how helpful this has been to me and have recommended the PT that I worked with to several friends.A Final Reflection
This experience has underscored how deeply postpartum recovery is misunderstood. Everyone is familiar with the 6-week check-up, and it's assumed that recovery ends there. This couldn't be further from the truth. The physical toll pregnancy and childbirth take on women's bodies is all-encompassing. It is crucial that women receive the right resources to ensure they make a full recovery.
