Pelvic pain and instability during pregnancy

Surfcoast massage is fully qualified in pregnancy massage and understands the severity of pelvic instability.

Signs and symptoms

Pelvic girdle instability can begin as early as the first trimester of pregnancy. Pain is usually felt low down over the symphyseal joint and this area may be extremely tender to the touch. Pain may also be felt in the hips, groin and lower abdomen and can radiate down the inner thighs.

A combination of postural changes, the growing baby, unstable pelvic joints under the influence of pregnancy hormones and changes in the centre of gravity can all add to the varying degrees of pain or discomfort. In some cases it can come on suddenly or following a fall, sudden abduction of the thighs or an action that has strained the joint.

During pregnancy the symphyseal gap can be felt moving or straining when walking, climbing stairs or turning over in bed. Any weight bearing activity has the potential of aggravating an already unstable pelvis, producing symptoms that may limit the ability of the woman to carry out many daily activities.

These are some symptoms experienced by women:

• swelling or inflammation over joint
• difficulty lifting leg
• pain pulling legs apart
• instability standing on one leg
• pain in hips and or restriction of hip movement
• nerve pain down leg
• can be associated with bladder or bowel dysfunction
• struggling to sit or stand

During pregnancy relaxin has a diverse range of effects, including the production and remodelling of collagen thus increasing the elasticity of muscles, tendons, ligaments and tissues of the birth canal in view of delivery. Relaxin’s main cellular action in pregnancy is to remodel collagen by biosynthesis changing of connective tissue.

Treatment

Surfcoast massage works in conjunction with physiotherapists working on core strengthening and the pelvic region. Working with physio’s with the pelvic instability helps the clients understand the problem and relieving the pain that comes with the instability of the pelvis. Getting the right treatment can make a big difference during this painful time. Surfcoast massage is located in Torquay and Jan Juc, speak to Lisa to make an appointment and get a treatment plan in place. Phone Lisa on 0438668878