Pelvic Girdle Pain: Understanding, Managing, and Treating the Condition

Pelvic Girdle Pain: Understanding, Managing, and Treating the Condition

Pelvic Girdle Pain: Understanding, Managing, and Treating | The Lifesciences Magazine

Pelvic girdle pain is a common issue that affects many individuals, particularly during pregnancy, though it can affect anyone regardless of age or gender. Affecting mobility and overall quality of life, those experiencing it may go from mild to discomforting. The most common association with pelvic girdle pain is pregnancy; however, causes are diverse and a comprehensive understanding helps in the management and relief.

This article will explain what pelvic girdle pain is, its symptoms, causes and risk factors as well as ways to manage and treat it effectively. It’s essential for you or any person you know suffering from pelvic girdle pain to keep this information in mind so as to take the right steps toward healing.

What is Pelvic Girdle Pain?

Pelvic girdle pain (PGP) refers to pain experienced in the joints of the pelvic region, which includes the sacroiliac joints and the symphysis pubis. The pain can vary in intensity, sometimes felt as a dull ache or, in more severe cases, sharp, shooting pain that radiates through the hips, lower back, or thighs. This condition often leads to limited movement and can cause difficulties in performing everyday tasks.

Though PGP is most frequently discussed in the context of pregnancy, it is not exclusive to expectant mothers. Individuals suffering from joint issues, musculoskeletal disorders, or traumatic injuries can also experience PGP.

Symptoms of Pelvic Girdle Pain

Pelvic Girdle Pain: Understanding, Managing, and Treating | The Lifesciences Magazine

PGP manifests in different ways depending on the severity and cause. Some of the most common symptoms include:

Pain in the lower back, hips, groin, and thighs

Discomfort when walking, climbing stairs, or standing on one leg

Difficulty sitting or standing for long periods

A clicking or grinding sensation in the pelvic joints

Pain while turning in bed or getting out of a car

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it’s essential to seek medical advice. A healthcare provider can help determine whether the pain is indeed pelvic girdle pain and suggest an appropriate treatment plan.

Causes of Pelvic Girdle Pain

Understanding the root cause of PGP is crucial for finding the right treatment. Several factors can contribute to the development of PGP, including:

Pregnancy: During pregnancy, the body undergoes significant changes. Hormones like relaxin are released to help prepare the body for childbirth by loosening the ligaments. This loosening, combined with the added weight of a growing baby, can lead to instability in the pelvic joints, resulting in PGP.

Trauma or Injury: A fall, accident, or impact injury to the pelvis can cause misalignment or damage to the pelvic joints, leading to pain.

Overuse or Strain: Overexerting the muscles around the pelvic region through repetitive activities like heavy lifting or high-impact exercise can strain the pelvic joints.

Joint Misalignment: Misalignment in the sacroiliac joints or pubic symphysis can cause pain in the surrounding muscles and ligaments.

Inflammatory Conditions: Inflammation of the pelvic joints due to conditions like arthritis can also lead to pelvic girdle pain.

Postural Issues: Poor posture, particularly when sitting or standing for long periods, can contribute to the development of PGP over time.

Risk Factors for Developing Pelvic Girdle Pain

Certain factors can increase the likelihood of experiencing PGP. These include:

Previous history of lower back pain or pelvic issues

Multiple pregnancies or carrying multiple babies (twins, triplets, etc.)

A sedentary lifestyle or lack of regular physical activity

Pre-existing joint or muscle disorders

History of pelvic trauma or injury

Pregnancy-related PGP typically affects up to 20% of women, and those who have experienced PGP during previous pregnancies are more likely to experience it again.

Diagnosis and Medical Evaluation

Pelvic Girdle Pain: Understanding, Managing, and Treating | The Lifesciences Magazine

If you suspect that you are suffering from pelvic girdle pain, it’s important to consult with a healthcare provider. Diagnosis usually begins with a thorough physical examination, where the doctor will assess the range of motion in your pelvis, hips, and lower back. In some cases, imaging tests such as X-rays, MRI, or ultrasound may be used to rule out other causes of pain, like fractures or herniated discs.

Once a diagnosis of PGP is confirmed, your doctor can work with you to create a personalized treatment plan.

Managing and Treating Pelvic Girdle Pain

While PGP can be uncomfortable, several effective treatments are available to help manage and reduce symptoms. Treatment strategies will vary depending on the cause and severity of the pain, but some common approaches include:

1. Physical Therapy

One of the most recommended treatments for pelvic girdle pain is physical therapy. A trained physiotherapist can design a tailored exercise program to strengthen the muscles around the pelvis, hips, and lower back. Strengthening these muscles helps support the pelvic joints, reducing pain and improving mobility.

Specific exercises such as pelvic tilts, gentle stretches, and core stabilization techniques are often recommended to relieve PGP.

2. Manual Therapy

In some cases, manual therapy, which includes hands-on techniques like massage or joint manipulation, can help realign the pelvic joints and ease discomfort. This type of therapy is particularly effective when joint misalignment is the primary cause of pelvic girdle pain.

3. Pain Relief Medications

For immediate relief from pain, over-the-counter pain relievers such as acetaminophen or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) may be recommended. However, it is essential to consult with a healthcare provider before taking any medication, especially during pregnancy.

4. Supportive Devices

Wearing a pelvic support belt or brace can help stabilize the pelvic area and reduce the strain on the joints. These devices are especially useful during pregnancy or when engaging in activities that may aggravate pelvic girdle pain.

5. Lifestyle Modifications

Making small adjustments in daily activities can have a significant impact on managing PGP. For example:

Avoid standing or sitting for extended periods without changing positions.

When sitting, use chairs that provide good lumbar support.

Sleep with a pillow between your knees to reduce pressure on the pelvic joints.

Avoid heavy lifting and high-impact activities that may strain the pelvis.

6. Exercise and Movement

While rest is important, staying active with low-impact exercises such as swimming, walking, or prenatal yoga (for pregnant women) can help maintain mobility and relieve PGP. Exercise not only strengthens muscles but also promotes circulation, reducing stiffness and discomfort.

Preventing Pelvic Girdle Pain

Pelvic Girdle Pain: Understanding, Managing, and Treating | The Lifesciences Magazine

Although PGP is not always preventable, there are steps you can take to reduce the risk of developing it. Regular exercise to strengthen the core, hips, and pelvic muscles can be an effective preventative measure. Maintaining a healthy posture when sitting, standing, or lifting objects is also important.

For pregnant women, wearing a supportive belly band and engaging in prenatal exercise programs can help reduce the risk of experiencing PGP.

When to Seek Medical Help

While mild PGP may be manageable with self-care strategies, it’s important to seek medical advice if:

The pain becomes severe and interferes with daily activities

You experience numbness, tingling, or weakness in the legs

The pain persists despite trying home treatments

Early intervention can prevent the condition from worsening and help you recover more quickly.

Also read: Understanding Pre-eclampsia: A Complex Pregnancy Disorder

Conclusion

Pelvic girdle pain is a disorder that many individuals suffer from but is mostly common among pregnant women. First, it is important to know what causes pelvic girdle pain, how it manifests and options for curbing it. Many people would be able to ditch this burdensome pain by getting proper care.

Do not panic if you have pelvic girdle pain; rather, seek medical advice from a qualified doctor. By being guided appropriately, you can have pain-free days instead of your familiarity with anguish.