01/25/2025
New research for anyone working with postpartum athletes
Many postpartum women are eager to get back to running, but it's important to do it according to the best available evidence. Returning to running after childbirth is not a one-size-fits-all process and requires an individualized and careful approach. This publication details the results of a Delphi study along with recommendations.
• A runner is anyone who identifies as a runner regardless of mileage or experience
• Before returning to running, consider these key areas of assessment: pelvic floor strength/endurance/coordination, pelvic organ prolapse, incontinence, lumbopelvic and lower extremity strength, inter-recti distance, balance and gait analysis.
• While no evidence exists on load/impact testing in this population there was consensus on several progressive indicators including: walking for 30 min, single leg balance, single leg squats, jogging on the spot, forward bounds, hopping
• Consensus was reached highlighting the importance of biopsychosocial assessment: sleep issues, pre-existing conditions, lactation concerns, hydration, fatigue and mental health.
• Support items supportive bras, intravaginal devices, and compression garments might help, but they aren't a replacement for building strength and function
• There's no magic number for when you can return to running, but athletes should wait at least 3 weeks. Every body is different. A gradual return is key.
• The runner should play an active role in planning the return to running. Considerations should be given to medical, social, and training histories along with their goals.
• General rehabbers should be quick to rely on specialists when an athlete presents with more complex issues .
Key takeaways: returning to running after childbirth is complex. Anyone who runs is a runner and returning to running can be nuanced. Runners need to have requisite strength, tolerance to load, patience and a plan. Any clinician working with this population should be ready to make assessments or refer. Read this open access article and let us know what you think!
Br J Sports Med. 2024 Mar 13;58(6):299-312. doi: 10.1136/bjsports-2023-107489.