Association between muscle function and low back pain in relation to pregnancy
Annelie Gutke1, Hans Christian Ostgaard, Birgitta Oberg
1Department of Medicine and Health Sciences, Division of Physiotherapy, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden. annelie.gutke@ihs.liu.se
Journal of Rehabilitation Medicine
|April 3, 2008
Summary
Muscle dysfunction, including reduced trunk muscle endurance and hip strength, is linked to pelvic girdle pain in pregnant and postpartum women. This highlights the need for targeted interventions for this common condition.
Area of Science:
- Obstetrics and Gynecology
- Musculoskeletal Health
- Rehabilitation Science
Background:
- Low back pain and pelvic girdle pain are common during and after pregnancy.
- Understanding the relationship between muscle function and pain subgroups is crucial for effective management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the association between muscle function and distinct subgroups of low back pain (pelvic girdle pain, lumbar pain, combined) in pregnant and postpartum women.
Main Methods:
- A prospective cohort study enrolled 301 pregnant women (12-18 weeks) and 262 postpartum women.
- Women were classified into pain subgroups using mechanical assessment, pain provocation tests, and history.
- Trunk muscle endurance, hip muscle strength, and gait speed were measured.
Main Results:
- Pelvic girdle pain and combined pain decreased postpartum; lumbar pain remained stable.
- Women with pelvic girdle pain and/or combined pain exhibited lower trunk muscle endurance, hip extension strength, and gait speed compared to pain-free women.
- Lower back flexor endurance was observed in women with persistent pelvic girdle pain.
Conclusions:
- Muscle dysfunction is significantly associated with pelvic girdle pain during and after pregnancy.
- These findings underscore the importance of considering muscle function in treatment strategies and preventive measures for pregnancy-related pelvic girdle pain.
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