Physical Activity and Yoga-Based Approaches for Pregnancy-Related Low Back and Pelvic Pain
Objective:
To conduct an integrative review to evaluate current literature about nonpharmacologic, easily accessible management strategies for pregnancy-related low back and pelvic pain (PR-LBPP).
Data Sources:
PubMed, CINAHL, Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews.
Study Selection:
Original research articles were considered for review if they were full-length publications written in English and published in peer-reviewed journals from 2005 through 2015, included measures of pain and symptoms related to PR-LBPP, and evaluated treatment modalities that used a physical exercise or yoga-based approach for the described conditions.
Data Extraction:
Electronic database searches yielded 1,435 articles. A total of 15 articles met eligibility criteria for further review.
Data Synthesis:
These modalities show preliminary promise for pain relief and other related symptoms, including stress and depression. However, our findings also indicate several gaps in knowledge about these therapies for PR-LBPP and methodologic issues with the current literature.
Conclusion:
Although additional research is required, the results of this integrative review suggest that clinicians may consider recommending nonpharmacologic treatment options, such as gentle physical activity and yoga-based interventions, for PR-LBPP and related symptoms.
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