Getting Abs Back After Baby

Why All Women Deserve Hands on Their Belly

At Empower Movement Physical Therapy, we believe that every woman deserves a set of hands on her belly after baby.

Why? Because pregnancy, birth, and postpartum don’t just change your muscles—they affect your entire system. Your abs don’t simply “turn back on” after delivery. Sometimes they need a reset.

How We Treat at Empower

Our therapists go beyond crunches and core exercises. We start by:

  • Releasing the diaphragm and vagus nerve so breathing can work for you, not against you.

  • Decompressing the thoracic spine to restore space between the ribs and turn nerve signals back on.

  • Mapping the rib cage to find hidden restrictions that block your abs from activating.

  • Hands-on belly work to release scars (C-section or pelvic floor) and wake up sensory input.

  • Re-training the slings (fascial lines that connect abs, pelvis, and legs) so movement feels integrated again.

When needed, we may also use dry needling, soft tissue release, or visceral manipulation to restore balance.

Before and Afters of Postpartum moms regaining their strength in one visit. 

8 weeks postpartum:

C-Section Scar Healing: 30 minutes of treatment transformed both the look and function of my scar 7 years post-c-section. 

 
 

Marianne - 1 year postpartum

What You’ll Notice After Treatment

Patients often report:
✨ Abs that finally “turn back on” (especially the stubborn lower belly)
✨ Easier breathing—without having to think about it
✨ Improved posture + pelvic alignment
✨ More power and confidence in movement

It’s not just about flat abs—it’s about reconnecting your system so your core supports you again.

Final Takeaway

If you’ve ever felt like your abs just “aren’t the same” after pregnancy, you’re not imagining it. The good news? With the right hands-on care and retraining, your core can fully reconnect.

Because all women deserve hands on their belly after baby.

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The Vagus Nerve: Your Body’s Reset Button