Osteopath for Pelvic Girdle Pain
Pelvic Girdle Pain: Osteopath Treatment in London
Pelvic Girdle Pain (PGP) is a common condition we see in our clinic, particularly during pregnancy or after injury. This article discusses the causes of PGP, how osteopathy can help, and the complementary services we offer to support your recovery. If you're looking for pelvic girdle pain osteopath treatment in London, this guide will help you understand your options.
Where is Pelvic Pain located?
Pelvic Girdle Pain (PGP) is experienced between the posterior iliac crest and the gluteal fold, particularly close to the sacroiliac joints (Vleeming 2008). The pain may radiate into the back of the thighs and can also occur in conjunction with/or separately in the pubis symphysis. PGP symptoms include pain while walking, bending, climbing stairs, and turning over in bed, which can have a major impact on your life. The pain can feel dull and achy, sharp shooting pain, or deep muscle pain.
Why am I Feeling Pain in my Pelvic Area?
PGP is more common in pregnancy, following trauma or reactive arthritis. PGP is a common, usually mechanical joint problem and is a treatable condition in most cases. Your pelvis consists of three joints (symphysis pubis and sacroiliac joints) which work together in a ring-type system. In PGP, these joints are not working normally. Often, one joint becomes stiff, irritating the other joint/s as they have to work harder than they should. At Wellthy Clinic, we offer PGP treatment in London to get restricted joints moving more freely to help reduce tensions and pains.
What can Pelvic Girdle Pain be a Sign of?
Other possible causes for PGP include ovarian cyst, pelvic inflammatory disease, appendicitis, peritonitis and urinary tract infection. Indeed, constipation, irritable bowel syndrome, pelvic abscess and endometriosis are possibilities. Therefore, speaking with your GP or manual therapist to describe your symptoms is very important. To gain a specific diagnosis, your symptoms must be treated effectively.
Pain Relief During Pregnancy
GPs are advised not to prescribe any medications during pregnancy if possible to avoid interactions with your pregnancy (NICE 2020). They may prescribe paracetamol, but if this proves ineffective, then you would need to ask for a referral to your obstetrician for pain management during pregnancy.
Osteopath for Pelvic Girdle Pain
Osteopathy provides a non-surgical, drug-free alternative treatment. PGP can be safely treated at any stage (during or after pregnancy). Osteopaths have extensive training in joint problems like Osteopath for hip pain, osteopath for knee pain, cranial osteopath for back pain and Osteopath for Sciatic Nerve Pain. Osteopathy sessions will include hands-on joint articulations, muscular stretching and joint manipulations. Cranial Osteopathy techniques are fantastic for PGP as there are gentle and help to regain pelvic balance. In addition, rehab Pilates London exercises (a mixture of stretching and strengthening) for the pelvic girdle muscles and upper back, hips, to aid mobility. The treatment will focus on reducing mechanical loading into the irritated joint, restoring function and reducing pain. It may take a few sessions. Our Osteopath will discuss how long it will likely take to feel better. They will give you exercise and lifestyle advice to optimise your recovery. We also offer paediatric Osteopathy for babies and children who may be experiencing difficulties.
Symphysis Pubis Dysfunction Treatment London
Symphysis Pubis Dysfunction is a collection of signs and symptoms of pain and discomfort in the pelvic area, which can also radiate to the upper thighs and perineum. Typically, these occur with pelvic ligament relaxation and increased joint mobility experienced in pregnancy. Symphysis Pubis Dysfunction can vary from mild discomfort to severely debilitating pain. At Wellthy Clinic, we offer hands-on treatment to stretch muscles and articulate joints to reduce pelvic tensions and pains, which can be very beneficial.
Complementary Services to Support PGP Recovery
In addition to osteopathy, we offer the following services to complement your treatment:
Pregnancy Pilates classes are specifically designed to address the unique needs of pregnant women. They offer a gentle yet effective way to maintain fitness, manage pain, and prepare your body for childbirth. Learn more about our Pregnancy Pilates services and how they can support your journey through pregnancy.
Nutrition also plays a significant role in your musculoskeletal health. For personalised advice, you can visit our clinic or schedule an online consultation. Our holistic approach ensures you receive comprehensive care that addresses your physical and nutritional needs during this pivotal time.
Cranial osteopathy is used to calm the nervous system and relieve tension.
Our integrated approach aims to treat the root cause of your pain and help you confidently return to daily activities.
Looking for Pelvic Girdle Pain Osteopath Treatment in London?
At Wellthy Clinic, we specialise in treating pelvic girdle pain with osteopathy in London, combining clinical expertise with a holistic approach. Whether you're pregnant or experiencing ongoing discomfort, our tailored treatments are designed to restore function and relieve pain.
Book your appointment today or contact us to learn more about how we can help.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can osteopathy help pelvic girdle pain?
Yes, osteopathy can help relieve pelvic girdle pain by improving joint mobility, reducing muscle tension, and supporting pelvic alignment. It is especially effective when combined with movement advice and strengthening exercises.
Can an osteopath realign the pelvis?
Osteopaths use gentle, hands-on techniques to improve pelvic joint function and restore natural alignment. This can help reduce compensatory strain and alleviate pain.
Is it safe to go to an osteopath when pregnant?
Yes, osteopathy is generally safe during pregnancy and can provide effective relief from pelvic girdle pain. Osteopaths trained in prenatal care use techniques adapted explicitly for pregnant women.
What is pelvic osteopathy?
Pelvic osteopathy refers to using manual therapy techniques to address dysfunction in the pelvic region, including joints, muscles, and ligaments. It reduces pain, improves mobility, and supports overall pelvic health.
Can osteopathy induce labour?
Osteopathy is not designed to induce labour, but can support optimal pelvic balance, which may assist the body in preparing for birth naturally. Any techniques used near term are gentle and supportive.
Does physio help pelvic girdle pain?
Yes, physiotherapy can be beneficial, especially for pelvic stability and strength. Both osteopathy and physiotherapy can complement each other in managing PGP.
Can massage help pelvic girdle pain?
Massage may reduce muscular tension and provide short-term relief from pelvic girdle pain. However, it may be more effective when combined with targeted Osteopathy and exercise.
How do you release pelvic girdle pain?
Relieving pelvic girdle pain often involves manual therapy, corrective exercises, posture advice and lifestyle modifications. A combination of osteopathy and clinical Pilates can be especially effective.
How long does severe pelvic girdle pain last?
PGP duration varies, but most people improve with early intervention and appropriate treatment within weeks to months. In some cases, pain can persist postpartum and may require ongoing care.
How do you tell if the pelvis is out of alignment?
Common signs include uneven hip levels, lower back or pelvic pain, and discomfort during movement like walking or turning in bed. A trained osteopath can assess and confirm pelvic joint dysfunction.
Clinic Director, Structural & Cranial Osteopath, Pilates Instructor with a sports science background.
Osteopath for Pelvic Girdle Pain References
NHS Pelvic Pain (2020) available at https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/
NICE (2020) https://bnf.nice.org.uk/guidance/prescribing-in-pregnancy.html
Pelvic Partnership (2020) available at https://pelvicpartnership.org.uk/
Pelvic Obstetric and Gynaecological Physiotherapy Guidance for Health Professionals
Pregnancy related Pelvic Girdle Pain https://pogp.csp.org.uk/system/files/pogp-pgppros_1.pdf
Vleeming (2008) Guidelines for the diagnosis and treatment of pelvic girdle pain Eur Spine J. 2008 Jun; 17(6): pp. 794-819.