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ARTICLE TYPE : RESEARCH ARTICLE

Published on :   14 Feb 2026, Volume - 2
Journal Title :   WebLog Journal of Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation | WebLog J Phys Ther Rehabil
Source URL:   weblog iconhttps://weblogoa.com/articles/wjptr.2026.b1405
Permanent Identifier (DOI) :  doi iconhttps://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.18809772

Comparative Study on the Role of Physiotherapy in Antenatal and Postnatal Women for Musculoskeletal Symptoms Management: A Scientific Perspective

R. Praveen Raja 1 *
P. Muthukrishnan 2
1B.P.T., Department of Physiotherapy, Devender Collage of Physiotherapy, Aryakulam Melakulam, Tirunelveli, Tamil Nadu, India
2M.P.T. (Orthopaedics), Research Scholar, Department of Physiotherapy, Meenakshi Academy of Higher Education and Research (MAHER), Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India

Abstract

Background: Pregnancy and childbirth induce profound physiological, hormonal, and biomechanical changes that frequently result in musculoskeletal discomfort, reduced physical fitness, and pelvic floor dysfunction. Evidence suggests that approximately 50-70% of pregnant women experience pregnancy-related musculoskeletal disorders, with lower back pain being the most prevalent. Antenatal and postnatal physiotherapy has emerged as a scientifically supported, cost-effective approach to promote maternal health, prevent complications, and enhance postpartum recovery with minimal adverse effects.

Objective: To comprehensively examine and compare the effectiveness of antenatal and postnatal physiotherapy interventions in improving maternal well-being, functional capacity, musculoskeletal symptoms management, and quality of life, with emphasis on evidence-based practice principles.

Methods: A narrative review of scientific literature from 2010–2025 was conducted through systematic searches in PubMed, Scopus, SLJPRS, and Google Scholar databases. Selection criteria included randomized controlled trials (RCTs), systematic reviews, meta-analyses, and clinical practice guidelines examining antenatal exercise programs, pelvic floor muscle training (PFMT), postural education, diastasis recti rehabilitation, and comprehensive postnatal rehabilitation protocols.

Results: Findings from 28+ studies including high-quality RCTs demonstrate that antenatal physiotherapy incorporating moderate-intensity exercise (150 minutes weekly), targeted pelvic f loor training, and postural correction significantly reduces pregnancy-related lumbar pain (50% reduction), reduces cesarean delivery rates by 34%, and decreases gestational complications. Postnatal physiotherapy demonstrated significant benefits in pelvic floor rehabilitation, diastasis recti management, reduction of musculoskeletal pain burden, and documented prevention of postpartum depression.

Conclusion: Scientific perspectives establish antenatal and postnatal physiotherapy as safe, effective, and essential interventions for comprehensive maternal health management. Incorporating structured, evidence-based physiotherapy programs enhances physical recovery, improves functional outcomes, and promotes psychological well-being.

Keywords: Antenatal Physiotherapy; Postnatal Rehabilitation; Pelvic Floor Muscle Training; Maternal Health; Exercise Therapy; Pregnancy; Postpartum Recovery; Diastasis Recti Abdominis; Evidence-Based Practice

Citation

Praveen Raja R, Muthukrishnan P. Comparative Study on the Role of Physiotherapy in Antenatal and Postnatal Women for Musculoskeletal Symptoms Management: A Scientific Perspective. WebLog J Phys Ther Rehabil. wjptr.2026.b1405. https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.18809772
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