Pregnancy related pelvic girdle pain (PrPGP) is pain in the pelvic joints that occurs during pregnancy. It includes any pain in the pelvic ring, most commonly in the back of the pelvic (SIJs) or buttocks, in the front at the pubic symphysis joint and groin. It can also occur on the sides of the pelvis and this pain may also radiate down the legs. Common symptoms include difficulties going up/down stairs, turning in bed, walking and getting in/out of cars.
It can occur at any time during pregnancy but often peaks in the third trimester. It is estimated that between 33%-50% of pregnant women experience PrPGP before 20/40, with 60-70% reporting some degree of PrPGP by late pregnancy (Clinton SC, 2017). For most mums PrPGP goes away after birth but for a small percentage of people it can remain.
Why does it occur?
Previously it was thought that the hormone relaxin was blamed for PrPGP as it was believed to make the joints in the pelvis more mobile during pregnancy. However, recent research shows that there is no link between relaxin and pain. It is now known that as your baby grows, the demands on your body and especially your pelvis change. Your posture change as your bump grows which can change the way your muscles work e.g. your muscles may become tight, weak or overworked which can result in pain.
How can a Physiotherapist help PrPGP?
Physiotherapists can help manage PrPGP by completing a detailed assessment of your pelvic muscles and joints to determine factors contributing to pain. Once the contributing factors are identified, these can be addressed with manual therapy (if appropriate) and by prescribing a specific exercise program to target these areas. Physiotherapists can prescribe support belts or garments to give a sense of stability around the pelvis and reduce pain.
Other tips for managing PrPGP:
Take smaller steps when walking
Reduce heavy lifting and pushing/pulling activities
Keep your knees together when rolling in bed or use ‘roll under’ technique
Sleep on your side with a pillow between your knees
When using stairs take one at a time
If you are experiencing PrPGP we can help! For further information on how we might be able to help you, please reach out via 0400 373 415 or via info@femalefocusphysiotherapy.com
References
Clinton SC, N. A. (2017). Pelvic Girdle Pain in the Antepartum Population: Physical Therapy Clinical Practice Guidelines Linked to the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health From the Section on Women's Health and the Orthopaedic Section of the America. Journal of Women's Health Physical Activity, 102-125.
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