The pelvic joints are comprised of two sacro-iliac joints located on either side of the base of the spine connecting the spine to the pelvis.  In the front there is a third joint called the pubic symphysis, which connects both halves of the pelvis together.

During the postpartum period, the pelvic joint ligaments remain lax due to continued hormonal changes produced by breast feeding.  This, in conjuction with weakened and overstretched abdominal and pelvic floor muscles, increases the risk of sacroiliac joint pain and dysfunction.  Women who experienced pelvic joint pain and instability during pregnancy are at a higher risk of problems during the postpartum period.

Proper protection, including good posture and body mechanics, along with specific exercises to strengthen the area, can reduce risk.  Physical therapy treatment can help by realigning pelvic joints, targeting specific muscle weakness and tightness, instruction in proper protection of the joint, using modalities to reduce pain and inflammation, and fitting you with a sacro-iliac support belt as needed to stabilize the joints during recovery.

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