This randomized controlled trial aims to evaluate the effects of a pelvic stabilization belt combined with exercise therapy on pelvic girdle pain and mobility in postpartum women. The study will compare combined pelvic stabilization belt and exercise therapy with exercise therapy alone. Pain, functional mobility, and pelvic girdle-related disability will be assessed to determine whether adding a pelvic stabilization belt provides additional benefits for postpartum women experiencing pelvic girdle pain.
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Allocation
RANDOMIZED
Purpose
TREATMENT
Masking
NONE
Enrollment
56
Participants assigned to the experimental group will use a pelvic stabilization belt in addition to standard pelvic floor physical therapy for 4 weeks. The belt will be positioned around the pelvic ring at the level of the greater trochanters to provide pelvic compression and support pelvic stability. Participants will be instructed to wear the belt for at least 4 hours per day during functional activities, including walking, standing, household work, and childcare activities.
Participants in both groups will receive standard pelvic floor physical therapy for 4 weeks. Treatment will include patient education regarding spinal stability, lumbopelvic alignment, posture, ergonomic strategies for breastfeeding, lifting and infant care, gait training, and psychological support. Pelvic floor muscle training will include Kegel exercises performed in supine or seated positions, with 5-10-second contractions, 10-15 repetitions per set, and 3-4 sets per day, emphasizing isolated pelvic floor muscle activation without compensatory abdominal or gluteal contraction.
University of Lahore
Lahore, Punjab Province, Pakistan
Pelvic girdle pain
The Visual Analog Scale (VAS) will be used to assess pelvic girdle pain intensity. It consists of a 10-cm horizontal line ranging from 0 (no pain) to 10 (worst imaginable pain). Participants will mark the point that best represents their current pain intensity. Higher scores indicate greater pain severity.
Time frame: 4 weeks
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