The pregnant pelvis: an integrated approach
The primary intention of this one day course is to help you achieve better outcomes for women presenting with pregnancy related pelvic girdle pain (PPGP). Using current scientific evidence, you'll review the functional anatomy and biomechanics of the pelvic girdle and physiological changes relevant to PPGP. This course has a large focus on the practical application of specific physiotherapy skills you need to effectively manage PPGP.
You'll learn specific assessment and treatment techniques for PPGP including the sacroiliac and pubic symphysis joints. You'll also understand how to prescribe exercises and the relevant contra-indications for your patients and discuss updated evidence on pelvic floor muscle dysfunction with PR-PGP. At the end of the course you'll review a case study to demonstrate and reinforce the clinical reasoning process behind effectively managing patients with PPGP.
This course will also discuss the importance of using a biopsychosocial framework when managing women with PPGP.
Learning outcomes
- Understand the biomechanics of the pelvic girdle, including the form/force closure model for pelvic girdle stability
- Improve your knowledge of pregnancy-related changes affecting the pelvic girdle, including a discussion on the role of relaxing and other pregnancy hormones
- Review the functional anatomy of the pelvic girdle, including the sacroiliac and pubic symphysis joints
- Understand the site specific changes of pregnancy to the abdominal wall, including a discussion on the latest research for abdominal separation
- Understand the evidence-based risk factors and prevention strategies for PrPGP, including psychosocial factors
- Know why and when to perform or refer on for an internal pelvic examination NB: this course does not include training on internal examination or treatment
- Effectively assess a patient presenting with PrPGP, including sacroiliac joint and pubic symphysis assessment including use of relevant functional tests
- Learn how to apply effective treatments to achieve a positive outcome for patients presenting with pregnancy related pelvic girdle pain
- Understand the relevant contra-indications and precautions to exercise during pregnancy
- Understand the rationale and be able to design a basic lumbo-pelvic stability program for patients presenting with pregnancy-related pelvic girdle pain
- Feel confident managing a woman with PR-PGP throughout her pregnancy using a evidence based, biopsychosocial approach
- Review the relationship between PrPGP and pelvic floor muscle function and lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS)
- Know the updated evidence on pelvic floor muscle training in pregnancy, and how it differs with PrPGP
- Understand the relevant outcome measures and screening tools to thoroughly assess the psychosocial aspects to PrPGP
- Understand the importance of effective communication and developing a strong therapeutic alliance with your patients
- Learn the clinical reasoning and skills required to apply tape and support belts with patients with PrPGP
Presenters
Angela James
Angela James MACP is the Founder & Principal Physiotherapist of Sydney Pelvic Clinic, a specialised pelvic health service for women, men and children. Since 2006, Angela has developed a team of like-minded, highly trained professionals committed to delivering an evidence-based and person-centred approach to improve their patients pelvic health. In addition to her clinical work, Angela teaches locally and internationally, striving to improve the quality of physiotherapy services beyond her own borders.
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