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Today, we’re helping differentiate between lower back pain and pelvic girdle pain and providing essential insights for effective relief. Explore why consulting with our Osteopaths at Completely Aligned is crucial, and delve into suggested exercises tailored for alleviating pelvic girdle pain. We also introduce a recommended product – the Serola Belt, available for purchase in the clinic after a personalised measurement.

Decoding the Distinction:

Navigating the differences between lower back pain and pelvic girdle pain can be intricate. Lower back pain typically stems from lumbar spine structures like muscles, ligaments, and discs. In contrast, pelvic girdle pain involves discomfort in the pelvic region, including the sacroiliac joints, pubic symphysis, and surrounding muscles. However, the two conditions are not mutually exclusive, and there is often considerable overlap in the presentation, so a thorough history and physical examination are required to accurately determine the origin.

Why Choose an Osteopath for Pelvic Pain in Camden?

1. In-depth Assessment:

At Completely Aligned, our skilled osteopaths have expertise in women’s musculoskeletal health. When addressing pelvic pain, our Osteopaths conduct a thorough evaluation, considering your entire body’s condition. This includes assessing posture, movement patterns, and range of motion to pinpoint the root cause of pelvic pain, ensuring a precise diagnosis and personalised treatment strategies.

2. Holistic Approach for Comprehensive Well-being:

 Embracing a holistic philosophy, Completely Aligned recognises your body as an interconnected system. Understanding that dysfunction in the pelvic region can impact other areas, our goal is not only symptom relief but also the restoration of balance and optimal function throughout your body. By addressing underlying causes, we promote enduring relief and enhance overall well-being.

3. Proficiency in Manual Therapy Techniques:

 Our osteopaths in Camden excel in various manual therapy techniques targeting the musculoskeletal system. Through hands-on methods like soft tissue massage, joint mobilisation, and manipulation, we address muscular imbalances, release tension, and promote proper pelvic alignment. These techniques aim to alleviate pain, enhance mobility, and optimise your body’s functionality.

Tailored Treatment Plans for Camden Women:

Recognising each individual’s uniqueness, we craft personalised treatment plans. Considering your medical history, lifestyle factors, and personal goals, we develop a roadmap to your recovery. Our approach includes hands-on therapy, exercise prescriptions, lifestyle modifications, pelvic supports, and self-care techniques.

5. Collaborative Care Network:

Completely Aligned advocates collaboration with other healthcare professionals to ensure comprehensive care for our patients, especially during pregnancy. If pelvic pain is linked to underlying conditions or requires a multidisciplinary approach, we can refer you to trusted specialists. This collaborative network ensures you receive the most suitable care for lasting relief.

Pelvic Girdle Pain Relief Exercises:

1. Pregnancy Cat and Camel Stretch

   – 2 Sets / 10 Reps

   – Start on your hands and knees, hands under your shoulders, and knees under your hips.

   – Allow your stomach to slowly drop down, lifting your head up and pushing your tailbone out. Hold this position.

   – Arch your back up by tucking your head and tailbone in, pulling your belly button towards your spine. Hold this position and then repeat.

2. Pregnancy Pillow Squeeze

   – 2 Sets / 5 Reps / 5 s hold

   – Lie on your back with both legs bent and feet flat on the floor.

   – Place a folded pillow between your knees.

   – If lying flat is uncomfortable, especially later in pregnancy, use a wedge cushion or pillows for support.

   – Tighten your core stability and pelvic floor muscles, simultaneously squeezing the pillow between your knees. Hold before relaxing and then repeat. 

3. Pregnancy Alternate Hip Flexion in Supine

 – 2 Sets / 10 Reps / hold

– Lie on your back with both legs bent and feet flat on the floor.

– If lying flat is uncomfortable, especially later in pregnancy, use a wedge cushion or pillows for support.

– Tighten your core stability and pelvic floor muscles.

– Slowly lift one leg up, bringing it towards your stomach while keeping your knee at the same angle. Breathe throughout.

– Slowly return your leg to the starting position while keeping your back and waist as still as possible. Alternate legs.

Recommended Product: Serola Belt

Ask about the Serola Belt, a supportive tool for managing pelvic girdle pain, especially during pregnancy. Available in the clinic, we’ll measure you for the correct size, ensuring optimal support and comfort.

Conclusion:

Distinguishing between lower back pain and pelvic girdle pain is pivotal for effective diagnosis and targeted treatment. Our osteopaths offer a comprehensive assessment, a holistic approach, expertise in manual therapy techniques, personalised treatment plans, and a commitment to collaborative care.

Take the first step towards relief by scheduling a consultation with our experienced women’s health osteopaths at Completely Aligned in Camden today. Your well-being deserves the attention it needs, and we’re here to support you on your journey.

References:

1. Vleeming A, Albert HB, Östgaard HC, Sturesson B, Stuge B. European guidelines for the diagnosis and treatment of pelvic girdle pain. Eur Spine J. 2008;17(6):794-819. doi:10.1007/s00586-008-0602-4

2. Franke H, Franke JD, Fryer G. Osteopathic manipulative treatment for nonspecific low back pain: a systematic review and meta-analysis. BMC Musculoskelet Disord. 2014;15:286. doi:10.1186/1471-2474-15-286

3. Foster NE, Anema JR, Cherkin D, et al. Prevention and treatment of low back pain: evidence, challenges, and promising directions. Lancet. 2018;391(10137):2368-2383. doi:10.1016/S0140-6736(18)30489-6

4. PhysiTrack Women’s Health and Pregnancy Exercise Programs: (https://au.physitrack.com/exercise_programs?refinementList%5Btheme_en%5D%5B0%5D=Women%27s%20health%20%26%20pregnanc-)