Does pelvic floor physiotherapy treat pelvic girdle pain?

Pelvic girdle pain can affect the pubic joint, sacroiliac areas, hips or lower back, often making walking, stairs, turning in bed, standing on one leg, or getting in and out of a car difficult. Pelvic floor muscles work with the trunk and hips to manage pressure and movement.

A physiotherapist may assess how you move, brace, breathe and transfer weight. Treatment may involve gentle stabilising work, positioning, activity changes, support garments when suitable, and strategies for daily tasks. Pelvic floor contractions are not automatically the main treatment.

Seek assessment from a pelvic health or musculoskeletal physiotherapist, particularly during pregnancy or after delivery. Describe what movements hurt, whether pain is centred at the pubic bone or one side, and how symptoms change with rest.

Use smaller steps, keep movements symmetrical where comfortable, sit to dress, and avoid activities that repeatedly provoke sharp pain until you have guidance. A personalised plan can maintain fitness without overloading painful joints.

Seek urgent assessment after a fall or injury, or for severe sudden pain, inability to walk, new leg weakness or numbness, loss of bladder or bowel control, fever, or significant bleeding during pregnancy or after birth.

Ask which joints and muscles are contributing, whether a belt or other support is suitable, how to modify walking and exercise, and which symptoms mean you should contact your maternity or medical team.