Navigating Sacroiliac Joint Pain During Pregnancy
Pregnancy is an exciting journey, but it can also bring about physical challenges, such as sacroiliac (SI) joint pain. This discomfort, often felt in the lower back and hips, can be frustrating for many expecting mothers.
In this guide, we'll explore the causes, symptoms, and effective treatments for sacroiliac joint pain, as well as some tips for managing and preventing it.
Understanding Sacroiliac Joint Pain in Pregnancy
Sacroiliac joint pain is a common issue for pregnant women, especially in the second and third trimesters. It occurs when the ligaments that support the SI joint become loose due to the hormone relaxin, which is produced during pregnancy to prepare the body for childbirth.
Causes of Sacroiliac Joint Pain During Pregnancy
There are several factors that contribute to sacroiliac joint pain, including:
Hormonal Changes: The hormone relaxin loosens the ligaments in your pelvis, causing the joints to become less stable.
Weight Gain: As your baby grows, the extra weight puts pressure on your lower back and sacroiliac joints.
Postural Changes: As your centre of gravity shifts forward, your lower back takes on more strain.
Altered Walking Pattern: To balance the added weight, pregnant women often adopt a different walking style, which can affect the SI joints.
Pre-existing Conditions: If you’ve had lower back or joint issues before pregnancy, you may be more prone to sacroiliac joint pain.
Symptoms of Sacroiliac Joint Pain
Sacroiliac joint pain can feel different for everyone, but common symptoms include:
Sharp or dull pain in the lower back, often felt on one side.
Pain that radiates to the hips, buttocks, or thighs.
Stiffness around the sacroiliac joint.
Numbness, tingling, or weakness in one leg.
Increased pain when standing, walking, or climbing stairs.
A feeling of instability in the pelvis or lower back.
The intensity of the pain can vary from day to day and may become more noticeable as the pregnancy progresses.
Treating Sacroiliac Joint Pain During Pregnancy
The primary goal of treatment is to reduce pain and improve joint stability. Here’s how we address sacroiliac joint pain:
Hands-On Treatments:
Soft Tissue Release: Techniques like massage or active release therapy target tension in the lower back, glutes, and surrounding muscles. Special attention is given to the ligaments near the sacroiliac joint.
Dry Needling: This technique may be used to relieve muscle tightness and pain in the affected areas.
Physical Therapy: Strengthening the muscles around the hips and pelvis helps stabilise the sacroiliac joint and prevent further pain.
Conservative Treatments:
Physical Therapy: A physical therapist can guide you through exercises that improve flexibility, strengthen supporting muscles, and reduce joint strain.
Pelvic Belts or Supports: Wearing a pelvic belt can help stabilise your pelvis, relieving some of the pressure on your sacroiliac joints.
Heat and Ice Therapy: Applying heat or cold packs can soothe pain and reduce inflammation.
Medications: Your doctor may recommend safe pain relievers to help manage discomfort during pregnancy.
Interventional Treatments:
If conservative methods don’t provide relief, your doctor may suggest:
Injections: Steroid or numbing injections into the sacroiliac joint to alleviate pain and inflammation.
Radiofrequency Ablation: A procedure that uses heat to block pain signals from the sacroiliac joint.
SI Joint Fusion: In rare cases, surgery may be necessary to fuse the joint for long-term stability.
Managing and Preventing Sacroiliac Joint Pain During Pregnancy
While sacroiliac joint pain can be challenging, there are several ways to manage it and reduce the risk of recurrence:
Conservative Management:
Rest and Modify Activities: Avoid activities that worsen the pain, such as heavy lifting or sudden movements.
Exercise and Stretching: Low-impact exercises like walking, swimming, and prenatal yoga can help strengthen your muscles and support your joints.
Use Pelvic Supports: Wearing a pelvic belt can stabilise your joints and reduce discomfort.
Practice Good Posture: Be mindful of your posture when sitting or standing to reduce strain on your lower back and pelvis.
Take Breaks: Avoid long periods of standing or sitting, and take regular breaks to rest.
Complementary Therapies:
Chiropractic Care: Chiropractic adjustments can improve joint function and alleviate sacroiliac joint pain.
Acupuncture: This traditional treatment may help relieve pain and inflammation by targeting specific points on your body.
Massage Therapy: Gentle massage can reduce muscle tension and improve circulation in the lower back, glutes, and hips.
Always consult your healthcare provider before starting any new treatments during pregnancy.
Seeking Medical Attention
If your sacroiliac joint pain becomes severe or persistent, it’s important to consult your doctor. They can evaluate your condition, rule out any serious underlying issues, and create a treatment plan tailored to your needs.
In some cases, your doctor may refer you to a specialist, such as an obstetrician, physical therapist, or orthopedist, for more specialised care.
Preparing for Future Pregnancies
If you’ve experienced sacroiliac joint pain in a previous pregnancy, taking steps to address any underlying issues before planning another pregnancy can help prevent recurrence. Consider the following:
Strengthen Core and Pelvic Muscles: Targeted exercises can help support your growing uterus and reduce strain on your joints.
Improve Flexibility: Stretching regularly can keep your ligaments and tendons flexible, reducing the risk of pain.
Maintain a Healthy Weight: Staying within a healthy weight range can minimise pressure on your joints.
By addressing these areas, you can reduce the likelihood of sacroiliac joint pain and enjoy a more comfortable pregnancy experience.
Take Action
If you’re experiencing symptoms of sacroiliac joint pain or have concerns about lower back discomfort, don’t wait. Contact our team today to schedule an appointment and start your journey to recovery, so you can enjoy your pregnancy without the pain holding you back.