CASE STUDY: Post Partum Low Back Pain

Mrs X, a 30 year old lady started noticing low back and right thigh pain about 6 weeks after giving birth to her first child. She reported her pain to be worse in particular after lifting and feeding her daughter.

A thorough examination showed that she sat in a poor posture, that she had pain on bending forwards and that she had poor muscle control around her low back and pelvis area. On questioning it was noted that she was feeding her baby in a poor position and was lifting her badly.

Treatment consisted of mobilisations to the lumbar spine along with some tissue work.

Mrs X was taught correct lifting and carrying techniques for the baby and general baby care. She was given a programme of strengthening exercises to strengthen the muscles around her low back and pelvis.

Mrs X reported a vast reduction in her pain after a couple of physiotherapy treatments and that she generally felt more confident with handling her daughter. She had improving muscle control around her back and was encouraged to continue with her exercises on a regular basis.