Bidari S, Ghorbani F, Barati K, Jalaleddini A, Pourahmadi M. The Role of Non-rigid Pelvic Belts in Managing Pregnancy-related Pelvic Girdle Pain and Low Back Pain: A Systematic Review. Iranian Rehabilitation Journal 2024; 22 (2) :151-166
URL:
http://irj.uswr.ac.ir/article-1-1879-en.html
1- Department of Orthotics and Prosthetics, School of Paramedical and Rehabilitation Sciences., Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran.
2- Department of Orthotics and Prosthetics, School of Rehabilitation Sciences, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
3- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, Rafsanjan University of Medical Sciences, Rafsanjan, Iran.
4- Department of Physiotherapy, Rehabilitation Research Center, School of Rehabilitation Sciences, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
Abstract: (2502 Views)
Objectives: Pelvic belts are prescribed for back and pelvic pain during pregnancy and postpartum. This study reviews level II literature (randomized clinical trials and clinical trials) considering the effect of pelvic belt application on pain and functional disability in pregnant women with pelvic girdle pain or low back pain.
Methods: Two reviewers independently performed a computerized literature search from PubMed/MEDLINE (NLM), Scopus, Web of Science, PEDro and Google Scholar databases. The included studies were agreed upon by the two reviewers, and a third reviewer mediated any disagreements. Data extraction was conducted by the two reviewers and cross-checked by a third reviewer. The quality of each included trial was assessed independently by the two reviewers and scored using the PeDro scale. Any discrepancies in selecting the studies and scoring them were resolved by a third collaborator.
Results: A total of 9 studies met the inclusion criteria and were selected for the systematic review. Four fair- and one low-quality study reported more significant pain reduction by the flexible pelvic belt than the usual healthcare or physical therapy. In two fair- and one low-quality study, higher functional improvement was reported by belt than healthcare or physical therapy. Meanwhile, one high- and one fair-quality study showed no added functional ability in the flexible belt for health care or exercise.
Discussion: The current review suggests using the flexible belt as a practical treatment approach in alleviating pain in pregnant women with pelvic girdle pain or low back pain (LBP) during pregnancy. However, the added efficacy in functional disabilities is controversial.
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● The flexible belt is recommended to alleviate pain in pregnant women with pelvic girdle pain (PGP).
● The efficacy of a pelvic belt on the function of pregnant women is uncertain.
● The rigid and flexible belts result in similar functional improvement in PGP.
Plain Language Summary
Pregnant women usually experience pelvic pain during pregnancy. This discomfort is often felt at the end of pregnancy and especially during the third trimester. The reason for pelvic pain during pregnancy is that at this time, the mother’s body is preparing for childbirth. During pregnancy, the mother’s body releases hormones that allow the connective tissues to loosen and soften. As a result, the joints and ligaments between the pelvic bones also begin to loosen. Increasing the flexibility of these bones is essential at this time, as it allows the baby to move around in the mother’s body during delivery. Also, part of the pain and discomfort felt by the mother is caused by lower back pain and changes in the position of the body. To reduce and relieve this pain during pregnancy, therapists’ suggestions are massage programs and wearing special pelvic belts. According to the studies, there is evidence to support wearing pelvic belts. Pregnant women should consult with their healthcare provider before using a pelvic belt to ensure that it is safe and appropriate for their individual needs and conditions. With the proper use and guidance, pelvic belts can be a safe and effective tool for managing pelvic pain during pregnancy and improving the quality of life for pregnant women.
Article type:
Reviews |
Subject:
Orthosis and Prosthesis Received: 2023/01/18 | Accepted: 2023/08/19 | Published: 2024/06/1
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