Course Description:
This course is designed to give the practicing clinician a comprehensive knowledge base in the obstetrics physical therapy treatment of the high risk pregnant patient and the postpartum patient. This course will also cover peri-partum trauma, the postpartum recovery process, return to exercise guidelines in the postpartum, and screening for postpartum depression. Course content is evidence-based and will promote the use of the most reliable tests and validated outcomes measures.

This course will advance the skill and knowledge of physical therapists trained in the examination and treatment of common musculoskeletal dysfunctions and impairments in the postpartum patient including diastasis rectus abdominis, low back and pelvic girdle pain, and other orthopedic-related conditions. Participants will perform and experience interventions appropriate for above mentioned conditions.

Course Objectives:
– Describe special populations during pregnancy including high-risk obstetrics.
– Describe and discuss the pregnant athlete.
– Describe common labor and birth related injuries and the management of peri-partum trauma.
– Describe and discuss common pelvic floor dysfunctions after childbirth.
– Describe the postpartum recovery process including hormonal, musculoskeletal, urogenital and reproductive systems.
– Diagnose associated musculoskeletal dysfunctions and impairments in the postpartum patient.
– Perform advanced orthopedic examination and assessment of the postpartum patient including pelvic girdle pain provocation testing, external PFM function assessment, and abdominal wall screen for diastasis rectus abdominis (DRA).
– Implement advanced PT interventions for postpartum-related musculoskeletal conditions.