Case study ( 6537 views as of October 11, 2024 )
Julie is a 33-year-old women who has recently discovered she is pregnant with her first child. Prior to conception, she was training for a half marathon, running 3 times a week with her running group and doing some strength training 1-2 times a week. Since her positive pregnancy test, Julie has stopped running and is unsure of what type of exercise is safe for her. She visits an exercise specialist for a consultation.
A discussion with the exercise specialist reveals that Julie has no medial diagnoses that need to be considered. Julie is currently 140 lbs - a 6-lb weight gain from her pre-pregnancy weight of 134 lbs. She is 14 weeks pregnant, and is just now beginning to feel better after she dealt with morning sickness during her first trimester. Julie has a history of repeated ankle sprains in her right ankle from her volleyball-playing days in high school and university, but is able to run distances with little pain. She does note some back stiffness since becoming pregnant.
The exercise specialist gives Julie a structured exercise program consisting of some cardio and strength exercises that is suited for her second trimester of pregnancy. He reviews the basics of exercising safely in her pregnancy, and gives her some tips to consider as her pregnancy progresses. The goal of the exercise program is to maintain Julie's fitness during her pregnancy.
Julie may wish to consult with an orthotics specialist to assess her need for orthotics, given her history of ankle injuries, a physiotherapist to assess her back pain, and could try prenatal yoga. Julie could visit her family doctor as well to ensure her pregnancy is being well managed, and a dietitian for prenatal nutrition advice. Finally, Julie could speak with her pharmacist about any medication she is currently taking, in order to determine the safety of over-the-counter medications while she is pregnant.
Author: Dr. Karen Nordahl
Conversation based on: Exercising Safely During Pregnancy - "Julie a 33-year-old women"
Exercising Safely During Pregnancy - "Julie a 33-year-old women"