Ab. No. 96 Factors Associated With Lumbopelvic Pain Among Pregnant Women in Their Third Trimester

Abstract

Introduction: With the increasing prevalence of lumbopelvic pain (LPP) among pregnant women, it is important to identify the factors associated with it. Previous studies have focused on the Western population. Hence, it is important to identify potential risk factors among the Indian population to find if the culture, or level of physical activity may influence the factors associated with pelvic girdle pain. Identification of risk factors will help in early screening and development of exercise intervention for the prevention of LPP. Methods: Primigravidae in third trimester aged between 18 to 40 years were included. Those with medical or obstetric complications were excluded. A cross-sectional study was conducted in which subjective measures were administered through questionnaires and objective measures by physical examinations were carried out to confirm LPP. Chi-square test was used to find the association between the variables. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression was performed to calculate the odds ratio. Results: Of the total 253 participants, 60.47% (n=153) were tested positive for LPP. Multivariate regression analysis (p < 0.05) demonstrated that factors associated with a greater risk of developing LPP were increase in period of gestation and pain intensity. Conclusion: Factors associated with lumbopelvic pain were period of gestation and pain intensity. The strength of the study is that special tests were conducted to confirm the LPP rather than subjective measures. Limitations of the study were previous history of low back pain was not noted and usage of analgesics or other remedial measures were not considered. Future research may focus on Randomized controlled trials to find the effectiveness of structural intervention program to prevent or treat lumbo-pelvic pain. Implications: Antenatal exercise program must be included as an integral part of Physiotherapy program from first trimester which may prevent Lumbo-pelvic pain