The Biopsychosocial Management of Perinatal Pelvic Girdle Pain: From Biomarkers to Mobility
Abstract
Background: Perinatal Pelvic Girdle Pain (PPGP) is a highly prevalent and disabling condition affecting up to 50% of pregnant and postpartum individuals, characterized by pain in the sacroiliac joints, pubic symphysis, and surrounding structures. Its etiology is multifactorial, involving biomechanical, hormonal, and psychosocial factors, yet clinical management often remains fragmented and biomechanically focused. This approach overlooks the significant psychological distress and potential systemic inflammatory components that modulate pain experience and disability. Aim: This narrative review synthesizes contemporary literature (2010-2024) to propose an integrated biopsychosocial model for PPGP management. It examines the roles of midwifery, physical therapy, psychology, and medical laboratory science in screening, assessing, and treating pain from a holistic perspective. Methods: A systematic search of PubMed, CINAHL, PsycINFO, and Scopus databases identified peer-reviewed articles on PPGP epidemiology, biomechanics, psychological correlates, inflammatory biomarkers, and intervention studies. Results: PPGP is best understood as a biopsychosocial phenomenon. Midwifery provides essential first-line screening and supportive care. Physical therapy offers effective biomechanical interventions, but their efficacy is enhanced when combined with psychological strategies targeting pain catastrophizing and kinesiophobia. Emerging evidence suggests low-grade systemic inflammation, measurable via biomarkers like CRP and IL-6, may correlate with pain severity and chronicity, offering a potential objective guide for treatment stratification. Conclusion: Optimal management of PPGP requires a coordinated, interdisciplinary approach. Moving beyond a purely structural model to one that integrates biomechanical correction, psychological support, and biomarker-informed care can improve functional outcomes, reduce the transition to chronic pain, and enhance the perinatal experience.
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Authors
Copyright (c) 2024 Fahad Mohammed Al-Bahli, Turki Khaid Alotibi, Muhammad Khaled Al-Mughairy, Fahad Mohammed Al-Bahli, Saleh Mohammed Faleh Alshammari, Haifa Abdulaziz Ali Alobaida, Norah Abdullah Naser Algaseem, Ghallab Habbab Alharbi, Mohammed Essa Mohammed Abutawil, Ahmed Mohammed Hussain Darbashi, Eissa Modhi Almutairi, Hussain Ali Ahmad Moafa, Ahmed Muraiziq Alharbi
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