Pelvic girdle pain
Pain around the pelvic joints, common during and after pregnancy.
Overview
Pelvic girdle pain is pain around the joints of the pelvis, frequently during pregnancy due to hormonal and load changes. It usually improves with load management, supportive strategies and targeted strengthening.
Symptoms
- Pain over the pubic area or back of the pelvis
- Discomfort with walking, stairs or turning in bed
- Pain with single-leg activities
- A sense of pelvic instability
Causes
- Pregnancy-related hormonal and load changes
- Asymmetric loading
- Reduced pelvic and hip muscle control
Treatment
- Load management and activity pacing
- Pelvic and hip strengthening
- Support belts in some cases
- Advice on daily movement strategies