Kristin Otero, OTR/L, MSOT Kristin Otero, OTR/L, MSOT

The Importance of Postpartum Ergonomics

Ergonomics is a specialty in the Occupational Therapy practice that’s becoming more widely discussed. For good reason. As we all become more aware of our positioning for work related tasks and become more aware of how the way we sit at a computer desk can result in micro-injuries over time; it makes us better able to handle the workload that comes with a full-time job. What ergonomics is typically related to is work; but not many people relate it to one of the most popular jobs in the world -being a parent!


There’s a huge change in your body post-child birth. There is more of a holistic perspective needed in caring for a new mom and their child during that first year (perinatal period), with “mother-centered” solutions. Improving women’s health will in turn improve infant health, but sometimes it’s hard for moms to seek help. 


Physiological Risk Factors: 

  • Soft tissue edema, Ligament laxity – relaxin & estrogen production

  • Weight gain (+ ligament laxity = joint discomfort)

  • Weakened core muscles: Abdominals, pelvic floor

  • Sleep deprivation

  • Shift in center of gravity

  • Emotional stress of new role (plus other roles). 


Postpartum stress can result in anxiety, fatigue, and decreased self care; which can lead to increased risk of physical and mental illness>impacting the wellness of the whole household. There is a connection between body posture, pain and Postpartum Depression (PPD); mental and physical symptoms & changes are interdependent. To counteract the symptoms of PPD, there’s a connection between exercise/wellness interventions & PPD prevention. 


“Using an evidence-based approach, occupational therapy practitioners can contribute to preventing pain, increasing function, and promoting meaningful occupations during pregnancy and the postpartum period.” OT practitioners are seeing women during the perinatal period in clinics with musculoskeletal diagnoses. Women expect pain/discomfort during the perinatal period – but may not talk about it. OT can address issues preventatively via health promotion. 


Common Risk Factors are:

  • Forceful Exertions  

  • Repetitive Activity  

  • Awkward or Static Positioning 

  • Contact Stress 


Research Study: Sit et al. (2017) study of 259 Chinese women 

57% reported wrist pain after childbirth 

Few new mothers had increased risk within first 8 weeks due to lack of experience of demands of childcare tasks 

Hypothesis that other factors were baby’s size, breastfeeding, and attending antenatal classes


Wrist/Thumb Positioning Tips 

  • Avoid the “L” position (wrist bent back)  

  • Keep a neutral wrist (not bent, more straight) 

  • Use larger joints/muscles  

  • Loosen your grip 


Posture Tips 

  • There are ‘normal’ curves in your back 

  • These curves MUST be maintained (especially the lumbar or low back) 

  • Neutral to anterior pelvic tilt 

  • DO bend at your hips (and knees) 

  • DO NOT bend at your waist


Feeding 

  • Breast or Bottle 

  • Try to get comfortable before baby latches 

  • Choose a comfortable ‘seat’ § Consider footrest 

  • Maintain lumbar curve of spine 

  • Avoid cervical flexion 

  • Neutral or anterior pelvic tilt


General Suggestions 

  • Look at grip and wrist position 

  • Look at environment: height of objects, reach, arrangement of items

  • Decrease frequency of lift/hold/carry 

  • Encourage independence, get help when available, get cooperation from child 

  • Decrease stress/strain of task 

  • Consider mood/behavior of child 

  • Stretch during the day 

  • Strengthen in preparation for childcare tasks


If you have more questions, I would love to discuss them with you! Please feel free to email me at smplytherapy@gmail.com.

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