Pregnancy Related Pelvic Girdle Pain – A real pain in the butt!
Pregnancy Related Pelvic Girdle Pain (PRPGP) can be quite a bothersome condition for many pregnant women. It affects roughly 1/4 pregnant women, and can range from an irritating twinge in the buttock right through to severe pain that can limit mobility. PGP might also be referred to as sacro-iliac joint (SIJ) dysfunction or instability, or symphysis pubis dysfunction (SPD). The pain is most commonly at one of the sacro-iliac joints, which is where the sacrum meets the pelvis. Or the pain may be felt in the buttock, back of the thigh, or pubic area. Typically PGP is a sharp pain felt when rolling over in bed, getting in and out of the car, or asymmetric activities such as using stairs or standing on one leg while dressing. It can develop at any stage of the pregnancy but is more common in the 2nd and 3rd trimesters. The good news is almost all women with PRPGP recover completely post partum (93%).
Pregnancy brings with it many significant changes to the Mother’s body, several of which predispose her to pelvic girdle pain:
- Hormonal changes: softening of ligaments and increasing joint mobility in preparation for birth
- Increased body weight: places increased demands on pelvic floor muscles and connective tissues
- Increased stretch of supporting muscles, particularly the abdominals!
- Changes in posture and muscle patterning: can lead to non-optimal loading of the pelvis
In an ideal world, the woman can automatically compensate for these changes using her muscular system, and not suffer any pain. However sometimes the body needs a helping hand to guide it in overcoming these challenges and restoring healthy movement and function.
Physiotherapy can be very useful in diagnosing and treating PRPGP. A range of tests are performed to find the source of the problem. We then use various hands on techniques to release tight muscles and restore normal movement in the pelvic joints. Prescriptive exercises are almost always given as homework to address any weaknesses or muscle imbalance. The use of taping or pregnancy support belts can also be very helpful for some women. We will also discuss practical tips to minimise symptoms including the way you sit, stand, walk, sleep, and lift.
Often back pain and pelvic girdle pain is brushed off as ‘a normal part of pregnancy’. Whilst it is a common condition, it is not necessary for women to suffer with PRPGP for their entire pregnancy. There is a lot we can do to manage the symptoms and keep the pregnant woman happy and active.
If you or someone you know would like further information or to book in for an appointment, call us on 40513252 or BOOK ONLINE.
