Does postnatal physiotherapy treat pelvic girdle pain?

Pelvic Girdle Pain can affect the pubic joint, lower back, hips, or buttocks and may be triggered by walking, stairs, turning in bed, standing on one leg, or separating the legs. After birth, altered movement, reduced strength, healing, and the demands of feeding and carrying can keep symptoms active. A physiotherapist assesses how you move and may check the pelvis, hips, trunk, and pelvic floor to identify helpful adjustments.

Treatment may include advice on pacing, symmetrical transfers, getting in and out of bed, carrying your baby, and arranging frequently used items. Gentle strengthening of the hips and trunk can be introduced when it is comfortable, with progression based on symptoms and function. Heat, supportive equipment, or referral for additional care may also be discussed. Avoid movements that repeatedly flare pain, but keep within comfortable activity rather than staying completely still.

Seek review if pain is severe, worsening, or stopping you from walking, sleeping, or caring for yourself. Medical assessment is needed for fever, unexplained vaginal bleeding, severe abdominal pain, new leg weakness, numbness around the saddle area, or loss of bladder or bowel control. Sudden inability to bear weight or a fall with significant pain warrants urgent care.

Ask which activities are safe now, whether a support belt could help, how to move in bed and lift safely, and what symptoms should trigger a prompt reassessment.