Effect of Mobilisation With Movement on Sacroiliac Joint Dysfunction in Postnatal Women

Background Postnatal sacroiliac joint dysfunction (SIJD) frequently persists into the extended postpartum period due to altered biomechanics and residual ligamentous laxity. This study investigated the preliminary clinical efficacy of incorporating Mulligan's Mobilisation With Movement (MWM) into a progressive conventional stabilisation program versus conventional stabilisation alone in women beyond six months postpartum. Methods In this comparative study, 102 postnatal women following lower segment caesarean section (LSCS) (aged 20-35 years, > 6 months postpartum) with clinically confirmed SIJD were randomly allocated to Group A (MWM plus conventional stabilisation, n = 51) or Group B (conventional stabilisation alone, n = 51) for an eight-week intervention protocol. Outcome measures included the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS), Timed Up and Go (TUG) test, and bi-directional lumbo-pelvic range of motion (flexion and extension). Results Baseline clinical and demographic characteristics were homogeneous between cohorts (p > 0.05). Post-intervention, Group A demonstrated more pronounced improvements than Group B across all parameters (p < 0.001). Group A achieved a mean VAS pain reduction of 4.70 points compared to 2.65 points in Group B. Functional mobility improved with a 5.40-second TUG reduction in Group A versus 2.90 seconds in Group B. Furthermore, bi-directional mobility gains were greater in Group A, with flexion expanding by 25.70° and extension by 14.10°. Conclusion These preliminary findings suggest that combining directional-specific MWM with conventional stabilisation exercises provides meaningful short-term clinical benefits. This integrated approach may offer a valuable mechanical strategy for reducing pain, improving dynamic stability, and restoring mobility in late postnatal SIJD.