Clinical Practice Guidelines for Pelvic Girdle Pain in the Postpartum Population

Journal of Women’s Health Physical Therapy: January/March 2022 – Volume 46 – Issue 1 – pE1-E38: Simonds, Adrienne H. PT, PhD; Abraham, Karen PT, PhD; Spitznagle, Theresa PT, DPT, WCS

Background: Pelvic girdle pain (PGP) is defined as pain experienced between the posterior iliac crest and the gluteal fold, particularly in the vicinity of the sacroiliac joint. Pelvic girdle pain is common postpartum, may result from pregnancy-related factors, and is a leading cause of disability postpartum. The purpose of this clinical practice guideline is to provide evidence-based recommendations for physical therapist management of PGP in the postpartum population.

A significant body of evidence exists to support physical therapist intervention with postpartum clients with PGP to reduce pain and disability. Emerging evidence suggests that further investigation of biopsychosocial factors is warranted, especially factors that influence the development of persistent pain in the postpartum population. Future research is needed in several areas to optimize examination and intervention strategies specific to postpartum individuals and guided by a classification system for PGP that includes elements of pain, movement, and biopsychosocial factors.