Low Back Pain and Pregnancy

Original Editors - Timothy Assi

Top Contributors - Lynse Brichau, Aiko Deckers, Admin, Brenda Walk, Corin Arundale, Timothy Assi, Christine Utskot, Joanne Garvey, Kim Jackson, Lauren Lopez, Nicole Hills, Chris Slininger, Rachael Lowe, Temitope Olowoyeye, Joshua Samuel, Uchechukwu Chukwuemeka, Evan Thomas, 127.0.0.1, Jeremy Brady, Laura Ritchie and George Prudden  

Search Strategy

Pubmed, Medline, Web of knowledge, books.

Definition/Description

Pregnancy related low back pain is a common complaint that occurs in 60-70% of pregnancies [21] and can be defined as pain between the 12th rib and the gluteal folds/pubic symphysis during the course of pregnancy. This pain is not the result of a known pathology 

such as disc herniation[25] and can begin at any point during pregnancy. Although most cases are mild, approximately one third of women experience severe pain.[11] Pregnancy related low back has been coined multiple times and can be referred to as one of the following patters: Low Back Pain (LBP), Peripartum Posterior Pelvic Pain (PPPP), Pregnancy-related low back pain (PLBP) or pregnancy-related pelvic girdle pain (PPGP). The last two patterns can occur separately or combined.[21] 

Unfortunately, there is limited research available regarding physical therapy intervention for pregnant women experiencing Low Back Pain, so a homogenous approach tends to be used. However, back pain is not homogenous; therefore special considerations and precautions should be taken when treating this population.

Figure A: (4) 

Clinically Relevant Anatomy

The lumbar region is constituted of five unique vertebrae that are designed to withstand increased weight and retain a lordotic curve. The vertebral canal of the lumbar region houses the tail end of the spinal cord and the Cauda Equina.

To maintain stability and provide support, the lumbar region is connected and held secure by an intricate web of ligaments: ligamentum longitudinale anterior and superior, ligamentum flava, ligamentum interspinata, ligamentum intertransversarium and the ligamentum supraspinale. All the mentioned ligaments will provide stability, whereas the longitudinal ligament will also be attached to the intervertebral disc in order to keep the discs in position. Additionally, the lumbar region is supported by strong low back muscles, pelvic muscles and abdominal muscles.

Epidemiology /Etiology

A number of reviews investigated the prevalence of low-back pain during pregnancy in different populations. The results are inconsistent, ranging from 8% to more than 89% of women who complain of low back pain during pregnancy.[10][19][20][21][22][23][24]

 
The exact etiology and pathogenesis of pregnancy related LBP is unknown, but it seems to be the consequence of circulations changes, hormonal and mechanical factors. In addition, previous back pain history, multiple abortions (evidence level 2C) and smoking are considered contributing risk factors that may increase the symptoms.[5][9][22][21][26][17] Some contradictory studies suggest that age, weight and height of the mother, fetal weight, and the number of pregnancies are not risk factors. [23][20]

The prevalence of pregnancy related low-back pain is the highest during the third trimester.[9][24] One of the more common reasons is a condition called Diastasis Rectus Abominis, which is the separation of the Rectus Abdominal at the Linea Alba, leading to poor posture and LBP.[25]

Characteristics/Clinical Presentation

There are several possible mechanisms of injury which could be causing pregnancy related LBP. During pregnancy, changes occur in the facet joints, in the back muscles, and in ligaments. This is mainly caused by the increased release of the hormone Relaxin,[11] which causes ligament laxity, and therefore can affect the stability of the spine and lead to back pain.[12]

 
Another contributor is the increase in weight. On average, about 11-15 kilograms are gained during pregnancy.[12] The weight gain increases the amount of force placed across joints, changes the center of gravity, and forces the patient into an anterior pelvic tilt. The anterior displacement of the center of gravity will cause women to shift their heads and upper body posteriorly over the pelvis, causing hyperlordosis of the lumbar spine. This in turn, places additional stress on the intervertebral discs, ligaments, and facet joints and can lead to joint inflammation.[14][15] In addition, abdominal muscles are stretched and weakened, and the added weight can compress on the lumbosacral plexus.[13]

The most common onset tends to be during the 5th and 6th month of pregnancy, and the pain is usually worse in the evening. About 67% of women experience pain at night. Factors that aggravate the pain include: standing, sitting, coughing or sneezing, walking, and straining during a bowel movement.[15] However pain and a disability of the lumbopelvic region are usually proven to be experienced as mild to moderate, except for a minor part (20%) of the pregnant women that will describe the pain as severe. [28]

Differential Diagnosis

Some other diagnoses that can be commonly mistaken for pregnancy related low back pain are: Sciatica, Meralgia Paresthetica, thoracic/rib pain, hip pain, coccygodynia, spontaneous abortions, osteomyelitis, osteoarthritis of spine or hip, Cauda Equina Syndrome, Osteitis Condensans Ilii, metastatic cancers, and Diastasis Rectus Abdominis. Other more common differential diagnoses are: disc disease, facet joint involvement and sacroiliac joint involvement. It is important to be able to recognize the subtle differences and differentiate between the comorbidities.(6)(30)

“Disc Disease - Morning pain and stiffness, pain when weight bearing, pain with increased abdominal pressure, history of repeated micro trauma, pain when going uphill, pain with prolonged sitting, pain with sit to stand activity. Sleep is usually undisturbed, pain eases as day progresses and then gets worse again, movement eases pain but not for long (e.g. fidgets).”(6)

“Facet Joint Involvement - Non weight bearing pain, pain with related to movement (specifically rotation), pain increased by lateral compression, history of minor injury, pain is not usually referred to an extremity, pain eases with rest, not affected by coughing or sneezing”(6)

“Sacroiliac Involvement - Pain is usually unilateral and does not midline, can refer to lower extremities, turning while in supine provokes pain, getting out of the car provokes pain, pain is referred to the groin or genitals, pain is related to menstruation prior to pregnancy because of the effects of cyclic hormones on pre-pregnant SIJ ligaments.”(6)

Diagnostic Procedures

In order to formulate the correct diagnosis, the patient should be questioned about her past medical history. It is important to concentrate on experienced symptoms, limitations in activities, and movement possibilities. Questions about past pregnancies such as – "Have you experienced any complications with prior pregnancy(s)?" are appropriate. This will help the therapist understand the patient’s health problems and needs. Knowledge of the anatomical and functional disorders, activity limitations and restriction of participation will help the therapist determine her/his role and the need for appropriate interventions. It is important to recognize red flags complaints and contact a doctor if they are present.[9]

Outcome Measures

Different measure instruments can be used in the diagnosis to estimate the complaints more objectively: Visual Analogue Scale (VAS)[10], Roland Disability Questionnaire (RDQ), Impact on Participation and Autonomy (IPA), Photograph series Of Daily Activities (PHODA), and Pain Behavior Scale (PBS).

Examination

During an examination of a pregnant patient, positioning is a key consideration. Excessive time in supine is not recommended due to the weight of the uterus on the vena cava and vital structures.[6] Based on the level of pain and disability of the patient, and potentially the size of the pregnant abdomen, certain tests and measures may need to be modified for this population.

Physical Exam
Examination should include observation of the posture and gait, neurologic screen to rule out underlying pathology, range of motion, muscle tests, palpation, muscle length tests, and assessment of joint mobility. Even though theActive Straight Leg Raise test seems accurate, the sensitivity will be elevated when combined with the Posterior Pelvic Pain Provocation (PPPP) test. [27] Special tests can includeFABER and Trendelenberg. The following findings are commonly revealed: Paravertebral muscles are tender to palpation, back muscles weakness, decreased ROM in flexion. The description of the pain is often not localized and may be intermittent. It is possible for the pain to radiate down as far as the calf.[5]

Modified Tests[8] 

Hip Flexor Length: To modify the test position of the ‘Thomas Test’ the patient will have to sit on the edge of a table or mat, and extend the test leg as much as possible, while maintaining slight knee flexion. The pelvis should be kept in a neutral alignment. A patient with non-impaired flexibility should be able to extend her hip perpendicular to the floor.
SI Joint Examination: If the patient is unable to stand, instruct the patient to lie in supine and perform a pelvic bridge. The bridge will place the pelvis in neutral - the ASIS’ can be palpated for symmetry.

 

 

Figure B: Walk B. Texas State University's Evidence-based Practice project.

  

  

Medical Management

It is important to encourage the patient to receive regular checkups by her obstetrician. During the therapy session, continually check on pain levels and any aches radiating from the low back or stomach. Some patients tolerate pain and discomfort better than others and will therefore mask their distress – Use a chart for Rate of Perceived Exertion to determine the patient's true status and take note of any changes that occur between the begging and end of the session.

Although there are numerous interventions promoted for low back pain during pregnancy, the most common and widely used is a specific exercise program designed by a physical/physiotherapist (see below)[1][2]. Another intervention that is getting tractions and shows prominent research is acupuncture. Recent studies show that a week of continuous acupuncture at specific auricular points can decrease pain and increase the capacity for some physical activity which can help diminish the need for drugs. [3]

Other Interventions:
- side lying while sleeping or resting using a wedge shaped pillow to support stomach
- use of pillow between the legs while side lying (squeeze the pillow/legs together while rolling)
- compression socks to promote venous return and decrease edema
- support belt (The Love Comfort support belt is covered by Medicaid) [6]
- soft tissue massage
- acetaminophen as proscribed by physician
- yoga [7]
- aerobic therapy
- aquatherapy[18 (Level of evidence:1B)]

Physical Therapy Management

Treatment depends on the diagnosis and timing of pregnancy (before or after childbirth). The patient should understand her own symptoms and be motivated to remain active.

“Red flags”(4)
Vaginal bleeding, dizziness/feeling faint, shortness of breath, chest pain, headache, muscles weakness, calf pain or swelling, uterine contractions, decreased fetal movement, vaginal fluid leakage, neurological involvement.

Physical therapy goals:[16]
• Restore biomechanics during daily activities
• Lumbo- Pelvic stabilization
• Advise and prevention

Physical therapy should be focused on the following Strategies:[29]

1) Patient instructions

It’s important to communicate with the patient and provide information about the relevant anatomy, ergonomics, back education (to prevent unnecessary mechanical stress on the back), and how to manage ADL activities (walking, standing, sitting, lying, and work position, learning how to control pain). Research shows that when the symptoms are explained, patients can feel more at ease and their anxiety may decrease. [36]

- Using a small pillow between the legs while sitting and rolling in order to stabilize the back.[35]
- Postural correction by standing upright with a neutral posture, avoiding hyperlordosis
- Do not sit or stand for a long time, alternate it with walking or stretching
- Taking breaks and resting in a comfortable position, with the back supported to relieve tired muscles[35]
- Sleeping lying on one side with the top leg on a pillow
- “Use of a small footstool for one foot in sitting or standing, alternate feet”[29]
- Avoiding spine twisting while lifting

2) Physical therapy

Stability, coordination and functional preservation should be trained with active back exercises – endurance training for back muscles stabilization.[17] Pelvic tilts, knee pull, straight leg raising, curl up, lateral straight leg raising and water aerobics are recommended because these exercises could relieves lumbar pain in pregnancy.[20] Relaxation exercises while paying close attention to proper respiration also show to be beneficial.(30)

Management includes specific interventions to address pain, weakness, and mobility in the low back region. The Ottawa Panel also recommends massage therapy in order to treat subacute and chronic low back pain. [34]

Manual therapy techniques

Posterior/Anterior mobilizations in side lying position	Addresses pain and mobility (Grades 1-4).	Figure C: Walk B. Texas State University's Evidence-based Practice
Muscle Energy Technique by resisting hip flexion in side laying while stabilizing the sacrum	Corrects anterior innominate rotation.	Figure D: Walk B. Texas State University's Evidence-based Practice
Spinal manipulation [35]	Are used to relax soft tissues

 

 

Active Exercises

Strengthening Gluteus Medius	Position the patient in a side lying and place an elastic around both legs above the knees. Ask the patient to perform an external rotation of her leg in order to strengthen the Gluteus Medius. Perform this exercise on both sides.  Feet need to be kept together during the whole exercise. Also, prevent the pelvis from externally rotating.	Figure E: Walk B. Texas State University's Evidence-based Practice
Abdominal Drawing in Maneuver with Physioball (ADIM).	Ask the patient to sit on a physioball and simulate a walk movement with the lower extremities. This will encourage the back muscle memory to stabilize back during ADL's. The patient will have to keep her back strait during the whole exercise.	Figure F: Walk B. Texas State University's Evidence-based Practice
Latissimus dorsi pull-downs	The patient will be positioned on a physioball, which will force the pelvic, abdomen and back muscles to stay active in order to find a balanced sitting position. This part of the exercise will provoke a contraction of the glutei to increase the strength of the posterior oblique sling muscles which compress the SIJ. In the meantime the patient will perform a latissimus dorsi pull-down by bringing the strait arms with the arms positioned in front and above the head to a position with flexed arms with the arms in front of the chest and bring the arms back to the prior position. This second part of the exercise will improve the latissimus dorsi muscle strength. Keep the back straight during the whole exercise.	Figure G: Walk B. Texas State University's Evidence-based Practice
Angry Cat [12]	Starting from the hands-and knees-position the patient will move her back up and down.  During this exercise it is important to keep the arms stretched out with the hands positioned right under the shoulders and to keep the stomach muscles tight throughout the entire exercise.	Figure H: [12]
Pelvic Tilt [12]	Lay down with flexed knees and move the pelvic in an anterior and posterior position.	Figure I: Women health clinic. Post Natal Exercises. Available at: http://www.pregnancyandchildcare. info/pregnancy_articles/ postnatalexer.html

 

Even though most pregnant patients will be advised to exercises within their safe and pain free range, studies show that less than 50% will actually do so. [33] Furthermore it has also been proven that training the rectus abdominus muscles will be useless due to his weakness during the pregnancy.

TENS
There is no strong evidence on the benefits of Tens on Low back pain in pregnancy but it can be used as a supplementary therapy. It’s important to use a low intensity and avoid the acupuncture points which may induce throes. Precautions and contra-indications must be respected.[30][(31 (Evidence level: 1A)]

Patients should take caution when using ultrasound and electrical stimulation and avoid placing those modalities anywhere near the stomach or low back.

Stretching ^{(Level of evidence:1B)}

1. Lower Back Stretch: it is plausible that stretching lower back and hip extensor muscles can lead to increased lower back and pelvic flexibility.(12)

 

Figure J + K: (12) Stahmann Dilfer C.; Your Baby, Your Body (Fitness during pregnancy); Crown publishers, inc., New York, 1977'

 
Instructions:(12)

a) Clasp your fingers around your right knee.
b) Gently pull your knee as close to your chest as possible. Relax your lower back and try to let your gluts (butt) roll of the floor as you pull.
c) Hold for a slow count of 3.
d) Release.
e) Repeat steps b-d 12-15 times.
f) Now, grasp your left knee, put the right foot flat on the floor and repeat steps b-e
g) Finally, grasp both knees with your hands, and pull both knees close to your chest (or outside your stomach).
h) Repeat steps b-e.

2. Combined squat stretch, back and hamstrings stretch: strengthens thighs (upper legs) and gluts, stretches hamstrings, inner thighs, pelvic floor muscles and back. (12)

Figure L + M: (12) Stahmann Dilfer C.; Your Baby, Your Body (Fitness during pregnancy); Crown publishers, inc., New York, 1977

Instructions:(12)

a) Squat down on your feet, feet pointing at a 45° angle to the sides, heels on the floor.
b) Open your knees wide using thigh muscles and push them apart until they are directly over your feet.
c) Keep your knees back over your feet, and slowly raise your gluts – keep on extending your knees – until your legs are as straight as possible (do not lock out your knees).
d) Relax your head, neck and shoulders.
e) Hold position for 10 counts.
f) Try to keep your knees over your feet and slowly lower your gluts until you return to starting position.

3) Aerobic exercises ^{(Level of evidence: 1B)}

Walking, swimming^1B,Tai chi, recumbent bicycle (or nu-step), are plausible to be beneficial at a low to moderate intensity. The stress on the back should be minimal.(32)

4) Home exercises

The exercises explained above could also be performed at home if both the patient and therapist feel confident that the exercises will be performed correctly without supervision.

Back tuck arch [12]: Lean with the back against the wall and alternate between anterior and posterior pelvic tilt.

Figure N: Hughston clinic. Excercising during pregnancy. Available at : http://www.hughston.com/a-11-3-4.aspx

Prognosis (30)
Patients recover from LBP in pregnancy within a few weeks or a few months after childbirth, but symptoms may return during a future pregnancy. Between 8% and 10% of women will continue to experience pain for up to 2 years post-delivery.(30)

Key Research

Low back pain pregnancy/pregnant, LBP pregnancy, pregnancy back pain, maternal low back pain, gestation low back pain, pregnancy exercise(s), low back pain causes, low back pain physical therapy.

Clinical Bottom Line

The majority of pregnant women experience low back pain. Appropriate examination, interventions and follow up, can help in managing the pain. Key questions must be asked and special modifications must be made for more complex patient experiencing pregnancy related back pain. As patient centered practitioners, it is our job to research and implement evidence based practice to increase outcomes with minimal number of treatments.

Recent Related Research (from Pubmed)

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