On Saturday, March 11th 2017 Christina and Gina presented their research
study at the Oregon Physical Therapy Association’s annual conference
in Portland.
Christina McManigal PT, DPT, PRPC and Gina Clark PT, DPT, in collaboration
with Pacific University’s Doctorate of Physical Therapy Program,
performed a pilot study of the efficacy of the Mommy Wellness Program
hosted by MCMC.
The program began at MCMC in 2011 and has evolved over the years to become
an 8 week interdisciplinary exercise and education program for pregnant
and postpartum moms. The intent was to encourage exercise, comraderie
among a community of new moms and to educate them regarding a healthy
lifestyle for themselves and their children. Topics include lactation
support, baby sign-language, infant massage, sexual healing, nutrition
for the family, physical fitness, stress management, and emotional well-being.
The study investigates changes in key areas of focus for the program: Fitness,
Pelvic pain, Quality of life, and Postpartum Depression. Our hope is to
demonstrate effectiveness of the program, modify the content as research
and feedback indicates, and eventually encourage duplication of this program
across the state and nation.