Prevalence of Sacroiliac Joint Dysfunction in Postpartum Women

Abstract

Background: Pregnancy related biomechanical and hormonal changes predispose women to sacroiliac joint (SIJ) dysfunction, a significant contributor to postpartum low back and pelvic girdle pain. Objective: To determine the prevalence of sacroiliac joint dysfunction among postpartum women in tertiary care hospitals in Lahore. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted on 202 postpartum women (18–45 years) within 3–7 days after delivery. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire and Visual Analog Scale. SIJ dysfunction was assessed using five provocation tests (P4, FABER, March, Gaenslen’s, Compression), with diagnosis confirmed when ≥3 tests were positive. Descriptive analysis was performed using SPSS-25. Results: The prevalence of SIJ dysfunction was 51.2%. Low back pain was reported before (44.1%), during (75.7%), and after pregnancy (77.7%). The most positive tests were FABER (59.9%), Gaenslen’s (56.9%), and March test (52.5%), while Compression test (34.2%) was least positive. Pain was predominantly dull (55.9%), with gradual onset (53.5%), and radiating pain in 35.1%. Cesarean delivery accounted for 76.2% of cases. Conclusion: Increased SIJ dysfunction is highly prevalent in early postpartum women, emphasizing the need for routine screening and early physiotherapy interventions to prevent chronic disability.

Keywords: Cesarean Section, Low Back Pain, Pelvic Girdle Pain, Postpartum Period, Pregnancy, Sacroiliac Joint Dysfunction, Visual Analog Scale.