Pelvis Instability and Low Back Pain
The incredible physical transformation that a mother experiences during pregnancy creates exceptional physical demands that are unparalleled in everyday life. Although we naturally tend to focus our attention on changes within the reproductive system, the strain on a mother’s musculoskeletal system can be particularly taxing. From rapid localized weight gain, to the loosening and reorganization of muscles and bones in the pelvic girdle, a mother’s body is biomechanically rearranged to enable birthing. This can obviously create new issues, as well as bring pre-existing injuries and areas of weakness to the surface!
Given the physical burden of pregnancy, it is not surprising that many mothers experience pain and injury, particularly in their low back and pelvic region. Weight gain in the abdominal area is particularly problematic, creating new load on pelvic muscles, ligaments and joints, and altering the mother’s normal standing and walking posture - thereby increasing the tension and strain at the low back, pelvis and buttocks. But the biggest changes are hormonally induced. The release of the hormone relaxin actually induces the ligaments in joints to loosen, particularly in the pelvis. This allows pelvic bones to shift to accommodate fetal growth and delivery, but can also promote an ‘unlocking’ and instability in the normally very stable sacroiliac joints of the pelvis. The unfortunate result: pain and weakness.
What are some symptoms of Pelvic Instability?
- Pain in the buttocks, typically between the low back and tailbone, and often one-sided.
- Pain radiating into the front of the pelvis and hips, or down the back of the thigh (which is often misdiagnosed as sciatica).
- Weakness in one or both legs, and difficulty lifting the leg while lying down.
- Certain activities may aggravate the pain: turning in bed, walking, moving from sitting-to-standing, bending forward, stairs, getting dressed/undressed.
- Pain may be greatest toward the end of the day or overnight.
What can I do about it?
- Contract the muscles in your lower abdomen and pelvic floor before lifting, coughing, sneezing, or other exertion.
- Avoid standing on one leg, or standing where your body weight is unevenly distributed between your legs.
- In bed, change your position by sitting upright and turning over rather than rolling over by planting one foot on the bed to push off with.
- Sit to put on pants, socks, shoes, etc.
- Use a pelvis support belt or a cane as needed.
- If symptoms persist, professional help may be warranted. Seek the advice of your physician or Registered Physiotherapist.
About the Author:
Lindsay Davey is a mother, Registered Physiotherapist, and Clinic Director of Toronto Physiotherapy. Learn more about common physical conditions affecting mom and baby, self-help techniques, and how physiotherapy can help:
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