Pregnancy Related Pain: Sciatica My Ass!

This session will describe the impact and prevalence of pelvic girdle pain (PGP) in pregnancy and the postpartum period. Anatomic, biomechanical, and hormonal influences in the etiology of pain will be explored. The most common diagnoses in pain presentation will be highlighted, debunking the common notion that pain in pregnancy is normal, and the erroneous assumption that sciatica/sciatic neuropathy is usually the primary cause. Attendees will gain an understanding of the diagnostic and evidenced based practical treatment options for pregnancy related PGP. Overall, the course aims to describe the impact and prevalence of PGP in pregnancy and postpartum; present the musculoskeletal pelvic anatomy and anatomic changes during this life stage and the proposed mechanisms in the etiology of PGP; outline the differential diagnosis, physical examination, and diagnostic work-up of PGP; and highlight rehabilitation and other treatment approaches in the management of pregnancy related PGP. (Recorded at PAINWeek 2018)