E-Posters-Soft Tissue Mobilization for Lumbopelvic Pain in the Third Trimester of Pregnancy

Soft Tissue Mobilization for Lumbopelvic Pain in the Third Trimester of Pregnancy - Russell Forest Stanley, DO

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This study aimed to assess the effectiveness of soft tissue mobilization (STM) in treating pregnancy-related lumbopelvic pain (PRLPP) in the third trimester. PRLPP is a common complaint during pregnancy, with symptoms worsened by an enlarging uterus and hormonal changes. STM is a physical therapy technique that involves applying transverse forces to induce tissue changes and promote healing. The study recruited 24 pregnant women in their second trimester who were diagnosed with PRLPP. The participants were divided into three groups: no manual treatment, superficial massage, and transverse soft tissue mobilization (tSTM). All groups received standard care and completed questionnaires to assess pain levels. The tSTM group received the technique once every 1-2 weeks by a physical therapist and were instructed to perform daily tSTM at home. The study found that BMI was a significant factor in comparing the results between the groups. In participants with a BMI greater than 40, the tSTM group showed a 30% reduction in pain compared to 10% in the superficial massage group and 2% in the standard care group. In participants with a BMI of 30-39, the tSTM group showed a 40% reduction in pain compared to 15% in the superficial massage group and 8% in the standard care group. In participants with a BMI of 20-29, the tSTM group showed a 55% reduction in pain compared to 30% in the superficial massage group and 10% in the standard care group. The study concluded that tSTM, in combination with other manual treatments and standard care, can provide relief for lumbopelvic pain in pregnancy, especially for those with lower BMI. The study suggests that further research is needed to explore the implications of soft tissue mobilization in obstetrics and gynecology, particularly for chronic pelvic pain. However, the study had limitations, including a small sample size, and further research is needed in larger groups of patients.

Keywords

soft tissue mobilization

pregnancy-related lumbopelvic pain

third trimester

enlarging uterus

hormonal changes

physical therapy technique

BMI

superficial massage

standard care

chronic pelvic pain