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.