By Dr. Maria Kirby & Dr. Zac Lynch

What is Pelvic Girdle Pain?

Pelvic girdle pain (PGP) is a general term used to describe irritation to the pelvic joints. Individuals with PGP typically experience pain around the pelvis at one or more of the following locations: 

●      The front of the pelvis where the two pubic bones meet. This area is called your pubic symphysis.

●      The back of your pelvis where the pelvic bone and sacrum meet. This area is called your sacroiliac junction (SIJ), and there is one on each side of your lower back.

What causes Pelvic Girdle Pain?

Pelvic girdle pain generally arises in relation to pregnancy, trauma, arthritis, and osteoarthritis. 

The true cause for pelvic girdle pain is unknown, but it is thought to be caused by a combination of factors such as hormones, postural changes, trauma, and degenerative changes. 

How to prevent Pelvic Girdle Pain?

By maintaining a healthy lifestyle, the risk for developing PGP decreases. By managing the risk factors associated with PGP, the onset of pain and symptoms can be reduced and avoided.

What should you do if a flare up occurs?

Pelvic girdle pain occurs when there is inflammation or irritation to the pelvis. When flare-ups arise, the goal is to STOP causing more inflammation and irritation to this joint in order to decrease pain and symptoms. 

  1. Make Modifications: We suggest temporarily modifying how you perform activities in order to reduce stress on the pelvic joints and ease off your pain. 
  2. Use Support Belts: Evidence suggests the use of support belts to provide external stability and assistance with force transfer while wearing. These help to reduce pain and restore function. 
  3. Find a Physical Therapist: Appropriately guided physical therapy has been shown to be effective time after time for resolving musculoskeletal problems including PGP. Research supports the combination of both manual therapy and exercise for resolving PGP.  Physical therapy integrates a variety of techniques that lead to optimal outcomes and maximum success.

Interested in seeking our help treating or managing your pelvic girdle pain? Contact us for more information at https://absolutetx.us/schedule-now/!