A new initiative at Lutheran Hospital aims to support mothers recovering from childbirth. The postpartum rehabilitation program, spearheaded by the hospital’s inpatient rehabilitation team, focuses on helping women regain strength and mobility after cesarean or difficult vaginal births.
A Personal Experience Inspires Change
Matthew Gratton, Operations Manager for Inpatient Rehabilitation at Lutheran Hospital, knows firsthand how challenging postpartum recovery can be. As a father of five, he watched his wife struggle to transition from the hospital to home after their fifth child’s birth. That experience planted the seed for a program that could offer other mothers the kind of support he was able to provide at home.
Gratton, a trained therapist, saw a gap in care that many new mothers faced. While medical teams focus on the baby’s health, mothers often lack resources for their own physical recovery. Recognizing this, he and his team set out to create a structured rehabilitation program tailored to postpartum needs.
Focus on Recovery and Mobility
The program is designed for mothers recovering from cesarean sections or traumatic vaginal deliveries. Occupational therapists guide patients through movements that minimize pain and promote healing. The goal is to help mothers move comfortably while reducing strain on their bodies.
- Many new moms assume they can move as they did before birth, but certain movements can trigger pain or hinder healing.
- Therapists teach proper techniques for everyday tasks like getting out of bed, lifting, and carrying their newborn.
- By addressing these challenges early, the program helps prevent long-term discomfort and promotes faster recovery.
How the Program Works
Lutheran Hospital’s therapists meet with new mothers shortly after delivery to introduce the program. These initial sessions include education on safe movement, pain management, and individualized recovery plans.
A table outlining key components of the program:
| Program Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Initial Consultation | Therapists assess mobility and pain levels |
| Movement Training | Safe techniques for daily activities |
| Pain Management | Strategies to reduce discomfort |
| Follow-Up Sessions | Additional support for continued recovery |
Follow-up sessions are available to ensure mothers continue to heal properly. The hospital believes this added support can ease the transition home and allow mothers to focus more on their newborns.
Looking Ahead: Certification and Future Goals
Therapists involved in the program are currently working toward an Enhanced Recovery After Delivery certification, which they expect to complete by the end of the year. This certification will enhance the program’s effectiveness and credibility, ensuring that mothers receive the best possible care.
Gratton emphasizes that the ultimate goal is to empower mothers with knowledge and techniques that will not only help in the short term but also promote long-term well-being. The program is expected to evolve as therapists gather feedback and refine their approach.
Lutheran Hospital’s postpartum rehabilitation program represents a proactive step in maternal healthcare. By focusing on recovery and mobility, the initiative aims to make the postpartum period a little easier for mothers in northeast Indiana.
