SUPPORTING NEW MOTHERS: THE ROLE OF OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY IN ACUTE CARE

Blog post written by: Brynnae Bierman, MOT, Concordia University Wisconsin

In acute care settings, occupational therapists play a crucial role in addressing the immediate postpartum needs of mothers to optimize recovery and support well-being. Despite the medical focus on physical recovery, integrating rehabilitation services early can make a significant impact.

1. Education on Posture and Body Mechanics
After childbirth, whether vaginal or cesarean, new mothers often need
guidance on safe body mechanics when lifting, holding, or breastfeeding
their baby. Occupational therapists provide education on maintaining
proper posture, reducing strain, and preventing musculoskeletal pain,
ensuring that mothers can care for their newborns safely.

2. C-Section Scar Massage
For mothers recovering from a cesarean section, scar massage is a
key intervention. Proper scar management can reduce adhesions,
improve mobility, and minimize pain. Occupational therapists educate
mothers on how and when to start gentle scar massage techniques,
promoting healing and mobility.

3. Addressing Perineal Trauma
In cases of severe perineal tears (grade 3 or 4), occupational therapists collaborate with mothers to manage movement limitations and offer body mechanics training tailored to their needs. Breathing techniques and pelvic floor exercises can help support healing, reduce pain, and enhance mobility.

4. The Importance of Acute Care Therapy Postpartum
Research highlights a gap in postpartum rehabilitation services in U.S. hospitals (Segraves et al., 2023). Although routine rehabilitation is
standard for other surgeries, mothers often leave the hospital without
receiving occupational or physical therapy interventions. With the
increasing postpartum readmission rates, providing maternal care
providers with comprehensive education on obstetric rehabilitation
is essential for improving postpartum outcomes. Early occupational
therapy intervention can help mitigate these risks and support
holistic maternal health recovery.

Call to Action
To all occupational therapists in Wisconsin: let’s advocate for the
inclusion of postpartum occupational therapy in our acute care settings. Together, we can help fill this critical gap and improve maternal health outcomes across our state.

Discussion Question
How can we, as occupational therapists, collaborate with obstetric teams to ensure new mothers receive the rehabilitation support they need
before discharge?

References
Segraves, R. L., Croghan, A., Coreas, M., Locati, E., & Finley, R. N. (2023). Initiating Occupational and Physical Therapy in the Hospital After Birth: Access, Reimbursement, and Outcomes. The Journal of Women’s & Pelvic Health Physical Therapy, 47(1), 26. https://doi.org/10.1097/JWH.0000000000000262