Midwestern’s Thrive Program Supports Postpartum Women

New mothers navigating the physical and emotional demands of postpartum recovery have a new resource in the western suburbs. Midwestern University has launched Thrive, a lifestyle program designed to provide individualized, practical support for women after childbirth.

Offered through the University’s Family Medicine Clinic and Physical Therapy Institute, Thrive brings together physicians and physical therapists to create tailored care plans that address the often-overlooked challenges of postpartum health—from core strength and muscle recovery to sleep, nutrition, and daily movement.

Subscribe

The program is led by Dr. Kimberly McKinnon, a Family and Lifestyle Medicine physician, and Dr. Teri Elliott-Burke, a physical therapist, who work together to evaluate each patient and develop a plan that fits her needs and routine.

“What makes Thrive unique is the collaboration between physical therapy and family medicine,” said Dr. Elliott-Burke. “By working together, we can address the full picture of postpartum recovery and give patients practical tools they can use every day.”

Services include weight management guidance, body composition analysis, vitamin deficiency screenings, and hands-on support for rebuilding core stability and muscle strength. The program also offers specialized evaluation of pelvic floor function and diastasis recti using ultrasound technology, along with coaching on body mechanics for infant care and everyday activities.

Recognizing that postpartum recovery doesn’t follow a single timeline, Thrive emphasizes flexible, realistic care. After initial in-person screenings, patients can continue with telehealth follow-up visits, making it easier to stay consistent while adjusting to life with a newborn.

Thrive is designed to help women feel stronger, more supported, and more confident as they move through the postpartum period. For more information or to register for the program, call 630-743-4500.