What is pelvic pain?
The pelvis connects the spine to the legs and plays an important role in almost every movement. When the muscles, ligaments, tendons, or joints around the pelvis become irritated, pain can occur. The pain may be located in one specific area or radiate to the lower back, hips, groin, or upper legs.
Pelvic pain is not a condition in itself, but a general term for various complaints and conditions that cause pain in and around the pelvic region. Pelvic pain may be caused by pelvic instability, sacroiliac (SI) joint complaints, overuse, poor posture, or prolonged physical strain.
The severity of the symptoms varies greatly from person to person. Some people only experience mild pain during activity, while others have difficulty walking, climbing stairs, sitting, or standing for long periods.
Causes of pelvic pain
Pelvic pain can have various causes. In many cases, several factors are involved.
Common causes include:
- Pelvic instability
- Pregnancy
- Recovery after childbirth
- Sacroiliac (SI) joint complaints
- Overuse of muscles and ligaments
- Poor posture or movement patterns
- Prolonged standing or sitting
- Hypermobility
- Osteoarthritis of the joints in the pelvic region
- Trauma or a fall
- Sports injuries
During pregnancy, the load on the pelvis increases and the ligaments become more flexible due to hormonal changes. This can cause pelvic pain or worsen existing symptoms.
Symptoms of pelvic pain
Pelvic pain can present in different ways. Symptoms often worsen during movement or prolonged physical activity.
Common symptoms include:
- Pain in the pelvis
- Lower back pain
- Pain around the pubic bone
- Groin pain
- Buttock pain
- Pain radiating to the hips or upper legs
- Difficulty walking
- Pain when climbing stairs
- Pain while standing for long periods
- Pain while sitting for long periods
- Difficulty turning over in bed
- Fatigue of the back and pelvic muscles
Symptoms may be constant or mainly occur during certain activities.
Treatment of pelvic pain
Treatment for pelvic pain depends on the underlying cause. The aim is to reduce pain and decrease the strain placed on the pelvic region.
Common treatment options include:
- Physiotherapy
- Pelvic physiotherapy
- Exercises to improve stability and muscle strength
- Posture and movement advice
- Adjusting daily activities
- Support with a pelvic brace
A pelvic brace can provide support to the pelvis and the sacroiliac (SI) joints. This helps distribute pressure more evenly and may reduce pain during everyday activities. Many people experience improved stability while walking, standing, and working when wearing a pelvic brace.
