ROLE OF PHYSICAL THERAPY TREATMENT IN ANTENATAL CARE

BACKGROUND Different types of physical therapy treatment interventions like postural guidance, nutritional guidance, and exercises performed by antenatal patients could have advantageous effects on pregnant women and fetus. OBJECTIVE To evaluate the role of different physical therapy treatments in the antenatal patient. SEARCH STRATEGY A Literature search is done through PubMed, Google Scholar and the Institute for Scientific data (ISI) net of Knowledge on the consequences of physical exertion throughout pregnancy on maternal and baby outcomes was performed. The knowledge about physical exercises during pregnancy is not clear. This review article is designed to explore the interventions of physical exercises during pregnancy in healthy normal women. SUMMARY Physical therapy is very essential for antenatal women to maintain their health during pregnancy. It has been documented that physical exercises are safe for the fetus and in long term by improving the quality of life of pregnant women. Healthy pregnant women should perform and continue regular physical exercises on daily basis by following the recommended guidelines. All pregnant women who are not facing any complications in their pregnancy should be encouraged to contribute to aerobic and strengthening exercises. Antenatal women undergo many body changes during their pregnancy for example weight gain which alters balance and coordination. The goal of physical exercises during pregnancy to maintain good health and fitness. Physical exercises during pregnancy should reduce the risk of back pain, constipation, gestational diabetes, preeclampsia and cesarean delivery. However, physical exercises promote healthy weight gain, improve general fitness, and strengthen heart and blood vessels, and helps to reduce the weight of the baby after pregnancy.