Optimizing Postpartum Recovery in Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy: Addressing Nutrient Depletion for Holistic Health Support

Many women experience cumulative nutrient deficiencies through pregnancy and post-partum that, if left unaddressed, can hinder lactation, mental health, pelvic health, and orthopedic recovery. This session spotlights critical nutrients, including iron, vitamin D, omega-3 fatty acids, and B vitamins, and their essential roles in energy levels, immune support, muscle health, and overall postpartum recovery. Participants will learn to identify signs of postnatal nutrient depletion and understand how these deficiencies affect recovery. Key strategies for assessment and intervention will be presented, emphasizing the practitioner’s role in dietary and lifestyle modifications to support patient health. This session also underscores the importance of a collaborative, multidisciplinary approach for achieving optimal outcomes. By proactively addressing nutritional gaps, practitioners can help ensure healthier, more resilient mothers and reduce the long-term health risks that stem from uncorrected nutrient deficiencies.

Learning Objectives

1. Define and identify postnatal depletion syndrome and recognize common symptoms in post-partum women.
2. Identify key nutrients critical for postpartum recovery through subjective and objective assessments.
3. Understand the impact of nutrient deficiencies on lactation, mental health, pelvic health, and orthopedic concerns.
4. Recognize when to refer postpartum women to appropriate healthcare providers to achieve optimal outcomes.

Meet Our Presenters

Tara Moore, PT, DPT, NTP, IFMCP

Tara Moore earned her Doctorate of Physical Therapy from the University of Indianapolis in 2011. Tara has a Master’s degree in Exercise Science and Sports Administration from Cleveland State University and an undergraduate degree from Baldwin Wallace University, focusing on Health Promotion and Education. She has completed a variety of advanced training in physical therapy evaluation and treatment for patients with pelvic floor dysfunction, including from Herman & Wallace. Tara has taken extensive coursework studying visceral manipulation through the Barrall Institute. She is a Functional Medicine Certified Practitioner (IFMCP) through the Institute of Functional Medicine and a certified Functional Nutritional Therapy Practitioner (FNTP) through the Nutritional Therapy Association. Tara utilizes her pelvic floor, women’s health and nutrition knowledge to provide customized whole-body treatment plans for optimal patient outcomes.