C-Section Care and Recovery
A C-section is a major abdominal surgery — and recovery deserves more than just being told to “take it easy.” Thoughtful, specialized rehabilitation can make a meaningful difference in how you heal, move, and feel in your body both short- and long-term.
​
We provide specialized C-section rehabilitation that addresses the scar, core, pelvic floor, and whole-body movement patterns affected by surgery. Care is individualized, hands-on, and designed to support you through early healing and beyond.
Why C-Section Rehab Matters
During a Cesarean birth, multiple layers of tissue are cut including skin, fascia, muscles, and connective tissue. Even when healing appears "normal" on the surface, you can still experience things like:
-
Pain or tightness around the scar or abdomen
-
A pulling, burning, or numb sensation at the incision
-
Core weakness or difficulty engaging abdominal muscles
-
Pelvic floor dysfunction (leaking, heaviness, pain)
-
Back, hip, or pelvic pain
-
Difficulty returning to exercise or daily activities
-
Feeling disconnected from your core or body
-
Targeted physical therapy can help restore mobility, strength, coordination, and confidence in your body.
C-Section Scar Care
Many people are not told how to care for their scar and many experience pain, numbness, and sensitivity that can persist for years. We specialize in C-section scar assessment and treatment. We help make your scar look and feel better. Our treatments include:
​
-
Education on safe scar care and desensitization early on
-
Hands-on scar and fascial mobilization using techniques like cupping, instrument assisted soft tissue mobilization, trigger point dry needling, and more
- Teaching you how to confidently work on it between appointments at home ​
- Helping you reconnect with your body and improve core strength
FAQs
​
Do I need physical therapy if I had a planned C-section?
Yes. Even scheduled C-sections involve significant tissue disruption. Physical therapy helps restore scar mobility, core and pelvic floor coordination, and supports return to daily activity and exercise.
​
Can physical therapy help numbness or sensitivity around my scar?
Yes. Numbness, tingling, pulling, or sensitivity are common after C-sections. Hands on techniques help improve the sensitivity and adhesions and the mobility around the scar. Working on the scar will help optimize healing improving the comfort and appearance of the scar.
​
Is it too late to work on my C-section scar?
It’s never too late. People often benefit from C-section scar therapy months or even years after surgery.
​
Do you offer in-home postpartum physical therapy?
Yes. I provide in-home C-section and postpartum physical therapy in the Minneapolis area, allowing you to receive care in a comfortable, supportive environment.
​
Do I need a referral?
No, Minnesota is a direct access state
​
Do I need to wait 6 weeks to see a physical therapist?
No you don't! The waiting 6 weeks rule is outdated and you really should be seen by some healthcare provider earlier. You can be seen as early as 2-3 weeks and get started on working things right away. The earlier the better!
​
​