Symphysis Pubis Dysfunction: Comprehensive Treatment at Palms Physiotherapy

What is Symphysis Pubis Dysfunction (SPD)?

Symphysis Pubis Dysfunction (SPD) occurs when there is abnormal movement or misalignment of the pubic symphysis, a joint located at the front of the pelvis that connects the left and right pubic bones. In SPD, the ligaments supporting the pubic symphysis become relaxed or overstretched, leading to pain, discomfort, and instability in the pelvic area. This condition is particularly common during pregnancy but can also occur in non-pregnant individuals due to trauma, repetitive movement, or muscle imbalances.

Anatomy of the Pubic Symphysis

The pubic symphysis is a fibrocartilaginous joint that connects the two pubic bones at the front of the pelvis. It plays a crucial role in stabilizing the pelvis during walking, running, and other weight-bearing activities. In SPD, the joint becomes unstable, causing pain and difficulty moving.

Symptoms of Symphysis Pubis Dysfunction

The primary symptom of SPD is pelvic pain, which can vary in intensity depending on the severity of the dysfunction. Other common symptoms include:

• Pain in the Pelvic Region: A deep, aching pain located around the pubic symphysis and lower abdomen.

• Pain During Movement: Activities such as walking, climbing stairs, and turning in bed can exacerbate symptoms.

• Pain with Weight-Bearing Activities: Standing, standing on one leg, or walking for long distances can increase pain.

• Pain with Groin or Hip Movements: In some cases, SPD can radiate into the groin, hips, or thighs.

• Difficulty Walking or Standing: Due to the instability in the pelvic joint, walking or standing for prolonged periods may become challenging.

Causes of Symphysis Pubis Dysfunction

SPD can be triggered by several factors, including:

1. Pregnancy and Childbirth

During pregnancy, hormonal changes cause the ligaments around the pelvis to soften and stretch to prepare for childbirth. This increased laxity can lead to instability and pain in the pubic symphysis. SPD is especially common in the third trimester of pregnancy.

2. Trauma or Injury

Direct trauma to the pelvis, such as a fall or car accident, can damage the pubic symphysis or surrounding ligaments, leading to dysfunction.

3. Repetitive Movements

Overuse or repetitive movements, especially those involving the hips and pelvis (such as running, dancing, or heavy lifting), can strain the pubic symphysis and cause SPD.

4. Muscle Imbalances

Weakness or tightness in the muscles around the pelvis, including the hip flexors, glutes, and abdominal muscles, can contribute to an increased load on the pubic symphysis and cause dysfunction.

5. Previous Pelvic or Hip Surgery

Previous surgeries around the pelvic region, such as hip replacements or other pelvic surgeries, can sometimes result in SPD due to changes in pelvic alignment or biomechanics.

Diagnosing Symphysis Pubis Dysfunction

To diagnose SPD, a thorough assessment is necessary. At Palms Physiotherapy, our team will work with you to identify the cause of your pelvic pain and develop a treatment plan that addresses your needs. The diagnosis typically involves:

1. Clinical Assessment

A clinical assessment includes:

• Medical History: Discussing your symptoms, lifestyle, activity level, and any potential causes or aggravating factors.

• Physical Examination: Our physiotherapists will assess your pelvic alignment, mobility, and muscle strength to identify areas of dysfunction.

• Pain Localization: Using palpation to determine the exact location of pain around the pubic symphysis and assessing how movement affects pain.

• Movement Tests: Evaluating how you move during specific actions such as walking, standing, and rotating the pelvis to assess joint stability and pain response.

2. Imaging Tests

While SPD is often diagnosed clinically, imaging tests may be required to rule out other conditions or confirm the diagnosis:

• X-rays: To assess any structural abnormalities or fractures.

• MRI or Ultrasound: These imaging methods help visualize soft tissue changes, such as ligament or cartilage damage, that may contribute to SPD.

Treatment for Symphysis Pubis Dysfunction at Palms Physiotherapy

Our goal at Palms Physiotherapy & Allied Health is to provide comprehensive care to reduce pain, restore function, and improve quality of life for individuals with SPD. Treatment may involve a combination of therapies tailored to your specific condition.

1. Physiotherapy

Our physiotherapists will develop an individualized program to treat SPD, which may include:

• Manual Therapy: Hands-on techniques to reduce joint pain, improve mobility, and restore function in the pelvis and surrounding areas.

• Core Strengthening Exercises: Strengthening the deep abdominal and pelvic floor muscles to support the pubic symphysis and improve stability.

• Stretching and Mobilization: Stretching tight muscles and mobilizing stiff joints to reduce pain and improve flexibility.

• Pelvic Stabilization: Exercises to improve the stability of the pelvis and reduce strain on the pubic symphysis.

2. Exercise Physiology

Our Accredited Exercise Physiologists will work with you to improve pelvic stability and function by:

• Low-Impact Exercise: Activities like swimming or cycling that avoid excessive strain on the pelvis while improving fitness.

• Strengthening and Stretching Programs: A combination of strengthening and stretching exercises to address muscle imbalances and improve pelvic stability.

• Posture and Movement Education: Correcting posture and movement patterns to reduce the load on the pelvic region.

3. Occupational Therapy

For individuals experiencing difficulty with daily tasks, our Occupational Therapists offer:

• Activity Modification: Recommendations for modifying daily activities, such as sitting, standing, and lifting, to reduce strain on the pelvis.

• Assistive Devices: Using devices like pelvic support belts to reduce discomfort and improve mobility.

4. Advanced Therapies

To further support your recovery, we may also offer:

• Dry Needling: Targeting trigger points and tight muscles around the pelvis to reduce pain and improve muscle function.

• Shockwave Therapy: Using sound waves to stimulate healing and reduce inflammation in the pelvic joint.

• Taping Techniques: Kinesiology taping to provide extra support to the pelvis and reduce pain during movement.

Preventing Symphysis Pubis Dysfunction

While certain factors like pregnancy are unavoidable, there are strategies to minimize your risk of developing SPD:

• Core and Pelvic Floor Strengthening: Regular strengthening of the core and pelvic floor muscles can provide better support for the pubic symphysis.

• Proper Warm-Up and Stretching: Warming up before physical activity and stretching the muscles around the pelvis can reduce the risk of strain.

• Ergonomic Modifications: Ensure that your posture and daily activities are ergonomically sound to avoid unnecessary strain on the pelvis.

• Gradual Increase in Activity Levels: If you're returning to exercise after an injury or pregnancy, increase activity levels gradually to avoid overloading the pubic symphysis.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How long does it take to recover from SPD?

Recovery time varies depending on the severity of the condition and the effectiveness of the treatment. With appropriate care, many individuals recover within a few weeks to several months.

2. Can SPD occur in men or non-pregnant women?

Yes, while SPD is common during pregnancy, it can also occur in men or non-pregnant women due to factors such as trauma, repetitive strain, or muscle imbalances.

3. Can I continue exercising with SPD?

Low-impact exercises, such as swimming and cycling, may be beneficial for those with SPD. However, high-impact activities or exercises that involve excessive strain on the pelvic region should be avoided until symptoms improve.

Why Choose Palms Physiotherapy & Allied Health for SPD Treatment?

• Experienced Team: Our team includes skilled physiotherapists, exercise physiologists, and occupational therapists with expertise in pelvic conditions like SPD.

• Holistic, Personalized Approach: We design treatment plans tailored to your specific needs to ensure the best possible outcomes.

• State-of-the-Art Facilities: Our Rehabilitation Gym, Sensory Room, and Kids Therapy Gym provide an ideal environment for rehabilitation.

• Comprehensive Support: From manual therapy to exercise rehabilitation, we offer a full range of services to help you recover and prevent future issues.

For expert diagnosis and treatment of Symphysis Pubis Dysfunction, book an appointment with us today: