In 2012, a study spearheaded by İlkim Çıtak Karakaya and a team of researchers from various institutions has unveiled promising results regarding the application of physiotherapy in the early post-cesarean period. The investigation aimed to determine the impact of a structured physiotherapy program on incision pain and functional activities following cesarean deliveries.

The study involved fifty women who had undergone cesarean operations. The participants were assessed on several key recovery parameters: the time taken to start walking post-operation, the return of bowel activity, the intensity of incision pain, the ease of performing functional activities, and the amount of additional pain medication required beyond the standard pain control protocols. The participants were divided into two groups: one received only routine nursing care (24 women), while the other group (26 women) received an additional physiotherapy regimen.

The findings were noteworthy. Women who participated in the physiotherapy program began ambulating and experienced the return of bowel activity significantly sooner than those who only received routine care (p < 0.05). Both groups showed a significant reduction in incision pain and difficulty in performing functional activities within two days post-operation. However, these improvements were markedly more pronounced in the physiotherapy group (p < 0.05). Additionally, the study group required less pain medication to manage their discomfort (p < 0.05).

The results underscore the effectiveness of physiotherapy in enhancing post-cesarean recovery. By facilitating earlier mobility and bowel function, reducing pain, and easing the performance of daily activities, physiotherapy can significantly improve the quality of postnatal care. This study provides robust evidence supporting the integration of physiotherapy into standard post-cesarean care routines, promising better well-being for new mothers.

In conclusion, the incorporation of a physiotherapy program in the early post-cesarean period has the potential to greatly benefit women, offering a broader perspective on improving postnatal care quality and productivity.

Reference: Çıtak Karakaya, İ., Yüksel, İ., Akbayrak, T., Demirtürk, F., Karakaya, M. G., Özyüncü, Ö., & Beksaç, S. (2012). Effects of physiotherapy on pain and functional activities after cesarean delivery. Archives of gynecology and obstetrics, 285, 621-627.