Symphysis Pubis Dysfunction

SPD can be described as a collection of signs and symptoms of discomfort and pain in the pelvic area, including pelvic pain radiating to the upper thighs and perineum. 

It often occurs in or after pregnancy due to the relaxation of the ligaments and increased joint mobility caused by the release of the pregnancy hormone Relaxin and the opening of the pelvis during birth.

The amount of pain can vary but it can often be excruciatingly intense, sharp, burning, grinding or stabbing with often a clicking in the lower back, hip joints or sacroiliac joints when changing position.

Any activity that puts more weight through one leg such as walking, climbing stairs, and getting in & out of a car, can increase the pain leading to difficulty in managing normal activities. Pain is usually relieved with rest.

During pregnancy, physiotherapy can help with pain relief, in addition to advice regarding support devices, sleeping positions and limiting activities, plus further advice on birth planning and positioning to avoid further dysfunction.

Postnatally, we will advise on limiting activity whilst working on the correct stability exercises to the lower back and pelvis to allow return to normal function.