Pelvic Girdle Pain

Pelvic joint pain is very common in pregnancy and early in the post-natal period affecting up to 20% of pregnant women. Called Pelvic Girdle Pain, it is commonly also known as “pelvic instability” even though the pelvis is not truly unstable in this condition.This pain may develop due to

  • postural changes,
  • hormonal changes which can soften ligaments around the pelvis,
  • growth of baby, causing increased pressures within the pelvis.

Pelvic girdle pain is commonly felt in the back of the pelvis where it joins the spine, or at the front of the pelvis where the bones join in the middle.  This joint pain can also refer to the muscles of the groin, thighs or buttocks.  Activities that tend to make the pain worse include standing on one leg (like when pulling pants on, or walking up or down stairs), having the legs wide apart (like getting in or out of bed), heavy lifting or changing positions.  Although it is a common condition of pregnancy, it is not normal to experience ongoing pain in these areas and there are lots of treatment strategies that can offer relief.

One of the most important treatments for this sort of inflammatory pain are:

  • REST,
  • Physiotherapy teaching how to
    pace yourself,
    avoiding aggravating factors and
    changing activities to decrease the load going through your pelvis.
    compression, stretches and strengthening exercises
  • Use of support stocking and belts

Here at SheFit Physiotherapy, we can give you personalised advice and exercise rehabilitation.  You may also benefit from massage and soft tissue work, or belts and garments which will help to provide relief.

Don’t put up with the pain – there is lots we can do to help.  If you are experiencing aches and pains in pregnancy, get some good advice and support from the right people.  Our SheFit physiotherapists have post graduate qualifications in Women’s Health and can help diagnose and treat your pelvic pain.  Usually the earlier we see you the better the outcomes.  Call or book online to have your pelvis assessed and get some relief ASAP!