Treatments for Pregnancy-related Lumbopelvic Pain: A Systematic Review of Physiotherapy Modalities

Abstract

(Acta Obstet Gynecol Scand. 2015;94(11):1156–1167) Pelvic girdle pain (PGP) during pregnancy occurs between the posterior iliac crests and the gluteal folds, and may radiate down the thighs, while low back pain (LBP) is localized beneath the ribs, but above the gluteal folds, and may or may not radiate down the legs. Lumbopelvic pain, which denotes the absence of distinction between PGP and LBP, is experienced by 50% of parturients and its prevalence increases as pregnancy advances. The distinction between PGP and LBP is important in order to select appropriate targeted treatment options. Earlier studies have reported that the majority of pregnant women with lumbopelvic pain have PGP (50% with PGP, 17% with lumbar pain, and 33% with combined PGP and LBP). Various treatments have been recommended by physiotherapists for lumbopelvic pain, including mobilization, exercises, use of pelvic belts, acupuncture, and manipulative therapy.