Pelvic girdle pain
What is it?
Pelvic Girdle Pain (PGP) is an all-encompassing term for pain anywhere around your pelvic ring (i.e. back, hips, groin, thighs). Previously known as pubic symphysis dysfunction, it is a common occurrence in pregnancy but also in sports – men and women.
The pelvic girdle is an amazing ring of bones around the lowest part of your torso. There are 3 joints in this ring, one at the front (pubic symphysis joint) and 2 at the back (sacroiliac joints). These 3 joints and their surrounding muscles are the root cause of PGP.
When will I feel it?
In general symptoms are worse during weight bearing or asymmetrical activities, for example;
- turning over in bed,
- walking or running
- using stairs,
- climbing, descending hills
- getting out of a chair or car
- standing on one leg (whether putting on socks or performing any number of yoga asanas)
- swimming breaststroke
- at the end of the day
What can be done about it?
Lots! First of all come to Balance for an assessment with our pelvic/women’s/men’s health specialists – Jo Fordyce to identify the cause of your particular symptoms. They will tailor a specific set of interventions and corrections to meet your needs that may include:
- Manual therapy will help the pelvic joints function better and also release over working muscles.
- Exercises that will strengthen and correct muscle imbalances.
- Lifestyle changes will address and adapt any aggravating activities so that you can enjoy your pregnancy without pain.
Useful link http://www.pelvicpartnership.org.uk