Post-partum physical therapy for mental and physical well-being

Post-partum depression isn’t uncommon after childbirth, but it usually passes within a few weeks. Depression can occur due to many reasons, including physical well-being. Here, researchers compare the effects of a group-based physical therapy and education program vs. a group based education program alone in 161 post-partum mothers.

Researchers from the University of Melborne, Australia, recently published the article in Physical Therapy finding that exercise-based post-partum physical therapy reduces depression by as much as 50%.

The message here is that exercise can do more than help your physical well-being; it can help your emotional state too. Speak to your physician about rehabilitation after post-partum and enjoy this special time in your life.

Read an abstract of the article here.