20/06/2024
Pelvic Girdle Pain (PGP) is the term used for pain in and around your pelvis. This may be in your lower back, buttocks, hips, groin or p***c bone. One in five women (20%) are likely to experience PGP at some point in their pregnancy.
What Causes back and PGP in pregnancy?
There are various reasons for developing PGP in pregnancy:
• The majority of Pelvic Girdle Pain (PGP) stems from the uneven movement of your pelvic joints. As your baby develops in the uterus, the added weight and shifts in posture from sitting or standing can increase pressure on your joints.
• As your child grows, the shift in your body's center of gravity towards the front may make you feel inclined to lean backward. This change in posture can strain the muscles and joints of your back, leading to discomfort and pain.
• As your tummy and pelvic floor muscles stretch, they weaken, providing less support to your back and pelvis.
• As pregnancy progresses, day-to-day tasks at work and home, as well as caring for other children, may become more challenging due to increased fatigue. The joints and muscles need to exert more effort to maintain your body's balance.
What are the symptoms of PGP and pregnancy-related back pain?
The pain can increase with everyday activities such as bending down, lifting objects, twisting, prolonged sitting or standing. The pain is commonly experienced on:
• walking
• putting your weight through one leg, for example getting dressed or climbing stairs
• moving your legs apart for example getting in and out of a car or the bed
• turning over in bed; this may lead to disturbed sleep
How is PGP/low back pain diagnosed?
Diagnosing PGP relies on the symptoms you present. An evaluation may be necessary to examine your posture, back movement, pelvic and hip joint mobility, as well as the strength of the muscles surrounding your pelvis.
What else can I do to help look after my back and pelvis?
A good posture will automatically work your lower tummy, pelvic floor and back muscles. This will support your back while you are sitting, standing and doing everyday activities.
The following simple measures may help:
• Keeping active helps to keep your muscles strong, improve circulation and prevent stiffness in your joints.
• Change your position frequently - every 30 minutes.
• Sit to get dressed and undressed.
• Try to keep your legs together when you get out of a car.
• Lie on the less painful side while sleeping.
• Rest before your pain significantly increases.
• Tighten your lower tummy and pelvic floor muscles when going from sit to stand to sit.
PGP can vary in intensity from mild to severe. Seeking treatment early increases the chances of effective coping and improved well-being. Consistent chiropractic and physiotherapy sessions can target spinal or joint misalignments, myofascial trigger points, and support correcting posture and ergonomics.
