Pubic Symphysis Dysfunction Treatment

Pubic Symphysis Dysfunction, also known as pelvic girdle pain, is used to describe symptoms of pelvic pain and stiff joints typically felt during pregnancy.

At Vitalis Physiotherapy, our treatment of Pubic Symphysis Dysfunction aims to:

What is Pubic Symphysis Dysfunction?

The pubis symphysis joint is between the left and right pelvic bones, held together by ligaments to prevent abnormal movement or shifting of these bones. During pregnancy, the ligament loosens due to hormonal changes, allowing the joint to move and widen the space between the pelvic bones to prepare for delivery. This relaxation of the pubis symphysis joint can result in mild to severe pain and the feeling of instability within the pelvis.

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What are the causes of Pubic Symphysis Dysfunction?

Pubic Symphysis Dysfunction mainly affects women as it only really develops during pregnancy. The release of the hormone, relaxin, occurs as early as 10 weeks into pregnancy to trigger the loosening of ligaments which support the pubis symphysis joint. This allows the pelvis to widen and accomodate for a vaginal delivery.

Sufficient relaxation of this joint can cause instability, reduced mobility and associated pain. This condition doesn’t usually affect the baby. In severe cases, there can be a partial or complete rupture of the joint.

Some factors which influence diagnosis include:

  • Genetics
  • Strenuous activity
  • Poor posture
  • Weight gain
  • Maternal age
  • History of difficult pregnancies

What are the symptoms?

  • Varying levels of pain – dull/achy/burning/shooting/etc.
    • In the front/centre of the pubic bone
    • In one or both sides of the lower back
    • In the perineum (space between the vaginal opening & the anus)
    • Referred pain which moves down the thighs
  • Increased pressure in abdominal/pelvic region
  • Clicking or grinding sounds with movement
  • Worsened symptoms after walking, shifting weight to one leg, using stairs, shifting in bed, etc.
  • Difficulty completing daily tasks
  • Difficulty passing urine or stools
  • Increased fatigue
  • Depressive episodes due to discomfort and reduced mobility
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Treatment

Treatment for Pelvic Floor Dysfunction

If you think you might have symptoms or conditions related to pubic symphysis dysfunction, it is important to see speak to your medical team for diagnosis and treatment/management options. You will likely be referred for tests to determine the extent of the condition or to rule out a differential diagnosis.

 

Physiotherapy is aimed at educating patients about functional lifestyle changes to manage symptoms and pain through an exercise program. At Vitalis Physiotherapy, we can tailor a unique treatment plan to manage symptoms through:

  • Stretching, strengthening and/or conditioning exercises
  • Restoring range of movement
  • Postural improvement
  • Soft tissue mobilisations (massage)
  • Trigger point therapy
  • Dry needling
  • Taping
  • A unique home exercise program – pelvic floor exercises and more
  • Graded Exposure to load program
  • Additional lifestyle recommendations

If the pain is severe, strenuous activity should be avoided. Your physiotherapist may also advise for you to use lumbar or pelvic support.

How to book an appointment?

If you have pubic symphysis dysfunction, or you’re looking for a ‘physiotherapist near me’, our physios at Vitalis Physiotherapy can assess your condition to tailor a unique rehabilitation plan to aid in your pain relief and recovery.

All you need to do is just give us a call on 0410 559 856 and request an initial appointment. Please let our friendly reception staff know the background and severity of your condition.

You can visit our FAQs for more information about appointments at Vitalis Physiotherapy.

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Need Help?

Are you in pain caused by pubic symphysis dysfunction? Contact Vitalis Physiotherapy now to book in your treatment.

Call our friendly team on 0410 559 856. We’d love to help.

Contact us for more information on treatment

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Sinnamon Park Village

3/58 Oldfield Road, Sinnamon Park Qld 4073

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