Managing Pelvic Girdle Pain

Pelvic girdle pain, often referred to as PGP, is a common musculoskeletal condition that can affect individuals, especially during pregnancy. It can be debilitating and significantly impact one's quality of life. At Tugun Osteopathy, we understand the challenges that come with pelvic girdle pain and are here to help you better understand, manage, and find relief from this condition.

What Is Pelvic Girdle Pain?

Pelvic girdle pain is a term that encompasses a wide range of discomfort and pain in the pelvic region. It typically involves the joints that connect the bones of the pelvis, including the sacroiliac joints and the pubic symphysis. While it often occurs during pregnancy, it can also affect individuals who are not pregnant due to various reasons, such as injury or structural issues.

Common Causes of Pelvic Girdle Pain

Pregnancy: PGP is a common condition during pregnancy. Hormonal changes that affect the ligaments supporting the pelvis can cause them to become more lax. The additional weight and altered posture during pregnancy can exacerbate the condition. Commonly referred to as Pregnancy Related Pelvic Girdle Pain (PPGP).

Trauma or Injury: Accidents, falls, or any traumatic event can lead to PGP, as the force applied to the pelvis can disrupt the normal function of the joints and muscles.

Overuse or Strain: Repetitive movements, poor posture, or excessive stress on the pelvis from activities like heavy lifting or prolonged standing can contribute to PGP.

Pre-existing Conditions: Some individuals may have structural or biomechanical issues that make them more susceptible to PGP.

Symptoms of Pelvic Girdle Pain

The symptoms of PGP can vary from person to person but commonly include:

·      Pain in the lower back, hips, and groin

·      Difficulty walking or climbing stairs

·      Pain when changing positions, such as turning in bed

·      Radiating pain down the legs

·      Difficulty standing from a seated position

Managing Pelvic Girdle Pain through Osteopathy

Osteopathic treatment for pelvic girdle pain aims to address the underlying causes of the pain and improve the body's natural healing abilities. Here's how Osteopathy can help:

Assessment and Diagnosis: Osteopaths perform a thorough assessment to understand the root causes of your PGP. This may involve observing your posture, range of motion, and conducting orthopaedic tests.

Manual Techniques: Osteopaths use hands-on techniques to restore mobility to the affected joints and muscles. This can involve gentle stretches, joint mobilisation, and soft tissue therapy, .

Exercise and Rehabilitation: Osteopaths often provide exercises and stretches that can help strengthen the pelvic area and improve stability. These exercises can be a crucial part of managing PGP.

Lifestyle Advice: Osteopaths offer guidance on posture, ergonomics, and daily activities to prevent PGP from recurring.

Pain Management: Osteopathic treatment can help reduce pain and discomfort, allowing you to better cope with the condition.

While osteopathy can be highly effective in managing PGP, there are also steps you can take to prevent and cope with this condition:

·      Maintain good posture.

·      Avoid heavy lifting when possible.

·      Wear supportive footwear.

·      Use pillows for support during sleep.

·      Stay active with exercises recommended by your Osteopath.

Pelvic girdle pain can be challenging, but with the right approach, it's manageable. At Tugun Osteopathy we have had ample experience manging pelvic girdle pain and are committed to helping individuals suffering from PGP find relief and regain their quality of life. If you are experiencing pelvic girdle pain, don't hesitate to reach out to our experienced osteopathic practitioners.