Postpartum Recovery should be more like ACL Reconstruction Recovery

When you read this, you might laugh out loud at the title because it might feel shocking that I’m even considering this comparison. However, with my experience as a physical therapist and as a women’s health coach, I have recognized there should be more comparisons between the 2 recovery processes. When recovering from an ACL reconstruction surgery it is expected that individuals move slowly, respecting the healing ligament and tissues. No expectation of complete recovery until 9 months – 1 year. Recovery in the postpartum phase is rushed, with new moms feeling the pressure to be back to their “prepartum self” just weeks after delivery.

Return to running is usually a hot topic among clients. At 6 weeks following an ACL reconstruction there is no way you’re expected to be running…not one of my clients has ever asked me if they are ready to run at that time. They are still working on strength to build up towards higher level activities. To compare, at a 6-week check in postpartum, you’re cleared to exercise and run…without direction or guidelines. You’re just “cleared.” And what does that even mean? To many women, it means go on a run. To a postpartum recovery specialist it means you can start with some gentle exercises to start preparing your body to return to running.

I like to compare timelines of Postpartum Recovery and ACL Rehabilitation because it’s a clear timeline focused on the time it takes for tissues to physiologically heal. It focuses on strength to protect the healing tissues. And it focuses on recovery and symptom driven workouts. With a focus on not pushing workouts that cause an increase in inflammation. Postpartum recovery needs to start respecting the same boundaries. If any activity creates pain, pelvic pressure, or incontinence of any kind…know you aren’t quite ready for that activity. Modify your workouts to start building. Focus on your weaknesses and start loading into that exercise. And, don’t feel like you should do any of this alone. Ask for help! Find a local pelvic floor physical therapist and work with a postpartum fitness coach to guide you.

Comparing the amount of in person doctor’s appointments is also an interesting portion of this comparison. Following an ACL reconstruction, the surgeon typically likes to see you at 1 week, 6 weeks, 12 weeks, 6 months, and 9 months – 1 year. Following delivery, you are checked on at 6 weeks. Then to “schedule if you need anything.”

Let’s work together to create an awareness of postpartum recovery. Let’s make it acceptable to consider the time it takes to HEAL and create more realistic expectations on recovery.

Were you reading any of this blog and relating to or agreeing with anything I’m saying? Message me! Let’s chat about it. Brittany.boehnke@gmail.com