Pregnancy Pains: Sacroiliac Joint Dysfunction

Pregnancy is a time of immense physical and emotional changes. As your body adapts to the growing baby, many women experience various discomforts and physical challenges. One of the less discussed, but relatively common issues is sacroiliac joint dysfunction (SIJD). Unfortunately, this condition can significantly impact a woman’s comfort and mobility during pregnancy.

What is sacroiliac joint dysfunction (SIJD)?

Firstly, the sacroiliac joints are located at the base of the spine where the sacrum (the triangular bone at the end of the spine) meets the bones of the pelvis. Importantly, these joints play a role in transferring weight and forces between the upper and lower body and across sides of the body. Ultimately, this joint contributes to your ability to move and weight bear effectively. Sacroiliac joint dysfunction occurs when there is an imbalance, irritation, or dysfunction in one or both of these joints, causing pain and discomfort.

During pregnancy, the body undergoes numerous hormonal, structural, and biomechanical changes to accommodate the growing fetus. These changes can strain the sacroiliac joints, leading to dysfunction.

What are the causes of SIJD during pregnancy?

Several factors contribute to sacroiliac joint dysfunction during pregnancy:

1. Hormonal changes: One of the primary hormones responsible for SIJD during pregnancy is relaxin, a hormone that increases the flexibility of ligaments and joints in preparation for childbirth. While this is necessary for labor and delivery, it can cause excessive movement or instability in the sacroiliac joints, leading to SIJD
2. Weight gain: Additionally, as the baby grows, your body naturally gains weight. This can alter your posture and create additional stress on the sacroiliac joints, particularly in the later stages of pregnancy. Ultimately, the extra weight can make the joints less stable and more prone to irritation.
3. Postural changes: As your belly grows, your center of gravity shifts, and your posture changes to compensate. This can cause misalignment in the pelvis and place uneven pressure on the sacroiliac joints, contributing to dysfunction.
4. Increased blood flow and fluid retention: Pregnancy also increases blood flow to the pelvis, which can cause swelling and fluid retention around the sacroiliac joints. Unfortunately, this added pressure can exacerbate discomfort and lead to joint dysfunction.

What are the symptoms of SIJD?

The symptoms of SIJD can vary from woman to woman, but the most common signs to watch for include:

• Pain location: In the lower back and pelvis on one or both sides of the sacroiliac joint. It may radiate to the buttocks, hips, groin, or thighs
• Difficulty with certain movements: For example, standing, walking, bending, getting in and out of bed or climbing stairs. Also, static positions like prolonged sitting or standing can be difficult
• Relieving positions: Usually, pain improves when lying down or shifting positions.
• Instability: Some women may feel as if their pelvis is “out of alignment” or unstable, and may even experience a feeling of the joint “moving” in and out of place.

How do I manage SIJD during pregnancy?

While SIJD can be uncomfortable, the good news is that there are several strategies that can help alleviate the pain and discomfort associated with this condition during pregnancy.

1. Prenatal exercises and strengthening

Gentle exercises that focus on strengthening the muscles around the pelvis and lower back can help provide stability to the sacroiliac joints. Focus on exercises that strengthen the core, hips, and glutes, as these muscles support the pelvis. For example, yoga, swimming, and walking are great low-impact options.

2. Pelvic tilts and stretching

Pelvic tilts are an excellent way to relieve pressure on the sacroiliac joints and strengthen the muscles around them. Furthermore, stretching the hip flexors, hamstrings, and lower back can also help reduce tension and improve flexibility in the pelvis.

3. Proper posture and body mechanics

Maintaining good posture is crucial to prevent further stress on the sacroiliac joints. Avoid slouching, and try to stand with your hips in alignment with your shoulders. When lifting, be sure to bend your knees rather than your back and avoid twisting motions while lifting.

4. Use of supportive devices

Pregnancy support belts or pelvic belts can help stabilize the pelvis and alleviate strain on the sacroiliac joints. These belts gently lift and support the growing belly, reducing pressure on the joints.

5. Physical therapy

A Pelvic Health Physical Therapist can provide personalized exercises, stretches, and manual therapy techniques to help reduce pain and restore pelvic stability. Manual therapy techniques such as joint mobilizations can sometimes help relieve pain in the sacroiliac joint.

Looking for help?

Then talk to us at PhysioNow! We have many experienced Registered Physiotherapists and Pelvic Health Physiotherapists to help you with your pregnancy pain. With 10 great clinics across the GTA from Burlington, Oakville, Mississauga and Etobicoke, we can get you on the road to recovery in no time! Book with PhysioNow today for your first assessment and treatment.