Treatment of SPD

Due to the relatively small numbers of women experiencing severe or long-term SPD in New Zealand, it is not uncommon to find that many medical professionals have little or no experience in dealing with the problem.

It is advisable to find a treatment provider who fully understands your condition or who has experience in treating SPD.

Osteopathy

This is the best and gentlest way of realigning the pelvic bones. Combining osteopathic treatment with core muscle stabilisation exercises for a better, long-lasting result.

Ortho-bionomy, Bowen therapy, Shiatsu and the Alexander Technique

These may all be helpful to people with SPD.

Physiotherapy

Find a physiotherapist who is experienced in teaching core muscle stabilisation exercises i.e. the Transversus Abdominus, Pelvic Floor, Multifidus and Diaphragm. Working together, these muscles form a corset around the lower spine and pelvis, forming a flexible cylinder of support. See http://www.dianelee.ca under 'Post-partum health for Moms' for more information. A physiotherapist can also advise you on support belts and other at-home treatments such as TENS (Transcutaneous Electronic Nerve Stimulators).

General Practitioner

Your doctor can discuss pain management options, the possibility of home help and disability car passes, and put you in touch with any relevant specialists (e.g. orthopaedic surgeons)

Acupuncture

Can significantly reduce pain levels (see Ref.)

Support belt and orthotics

Support belts offer support and firm pressure on the pelvis which many women find helpful e.g. Sacro-iliac or Maternity Belts. However, if your pelvis is misaligned, a firm belt may worsen the pain (see osteopathy above). For chronic misalignment problems, a flexible, elasticised support is usually more comfortable and effective. Contact a qualified orthotist for a range of options.

Surgery

In extreme cases, surgery may be an option. It is possible to fuse, wire or plate the Symphysis Pubis together. However, this operation is not common and does not appear to have a very high success rate in terms of pain reduction. See Delphi forums (put ‘SPD’ in the search box) for discussions on surgery options.

Counseling or having someone to talk to.

Talking to other women experiencing SPD can be extremely helpful and will reduce any sense of isolation or the feeling that you are the only one dealing with this distressing condition.

Reference:Elden H, Ladfors L, Olsen M, Ostgaard H & Hagberg H. ‘Effects of acupuncture and stabilising exercises as adjunct to standard treatment in pregnant women with pelvic girdle pain’ BMJ April 2 2005 330:761