Written by a pelvic floor physical therapist at Empower Your Pelvis, in Kansas City, Missouri (Lee Summit, MO and Overland Park, KS)

Let’s talk about your abdominal muscles and connective tissue—better known as your core! One of the most common misconceptions we see as physical therapists is the expectation that muscles will change and strengthen in just a few days. We hate to break it to you, but that's simply not realistic. Muscle tissue needs time—typically 8 to 10 weeks—to grow stronger, build endurance, and function efficiently. So, remember to be patient and show your body some grace!

Postpartum Recovery: Embrace the Process

For many postpartum moms, it’s easy to feel frustrated when your body doesn’t "bounce back" right away. The baby may be out of your belly, but your body is still in recovery mode! It's completely normal to look and feel different for a while. Your body went through an incredible journey, so try to appreciate what it’s accomplished instead of focusing on what's changed.

The Role of Connective Tissue in Core Recovery

It’s not just your muscles that need attention—your connective tissue does too. Pregnancy involves months of stretching and expanding, and it’s important to recognize that your body won’t immediately return to its pre-pregnancy state. Connective tissue, like that in your abdomen, can take up to 2 years to fully heal. This is crucial to remember, especially when dealing with issues like C-section incisions, abdominal surgeries, and diastasis recti.

In our clinic, we focus on addressing this connective tissue through various methods such as scar tissue massage, cupping, heat therapy, and stretching. Proper care of this tissue is essential to reconnecting with your core muscles effectively.

Consistency is the Key to Core Strengthening

When it comes to rebuilding abdominal strength after pregnancy and delivery, consistency is key. We start by teaching our patients how to properly coordinate their abdominal muscles, with a strong emphasis on breathing techniques and engaging the lower abdominals. This foundational work supports everyday movements and sets the stage for more advanced exercises.

As patients progress, we gradually increase the intensity, change positions, build endurance, and introduce weight. Since everyone’s recovery is unique, we provide individualized programs tailored to each patient's needs. Remember, this journey is a marathon, not a sprint! Progress might not be linear, and that's perfectly okay.

The Bottom Line: Patience and Persistence Pay Off

Your core strength is a journey that requires patience and persistence. It’s important to be kind to yourself and celebrate every small victory along the way. With time, consistency, and the right support, you will see progress.

Ready to start your core recovery journey? Contact us at Empower Your Pelvis to get personalized support!

Get Professional Help

If you're looking for “pelvic floor therapy near me”, consider scheduling a consultation at one of our locations in Kansas City-Overland Park, Kansas, or Lees Summit, Missouri. Click here to book your appointment.

Join the Body After Birth Program

Are you ready to take control of your postpartum recovery and tackle the challenges caused by pregnancy and childbirth? The Body After Birth Program offers the comprehensive support you need to heal, strengthen, and thrive. Join today and start your journey to feeling your best, both inside and out!

With wellness in your pelvis-

Amanda Fisher, PT, DPT
Owner, Empower Your Pelvis, a pelvic floor physical therapy clinic in Kansas City (Lee’s Summit, MO and Overland Park, KS)