Altered musculoskeletal mechanics as risk factors for postpartum pelvic girdle pain: a literature review

[Purpose] The aim of this literature review was to detect the factors associated with pelvic girdle pain persisting for over 3 months in the postpartum period. [Methods] We performed a broad literature search for eligible studies published before May 1, 2018 using electronic databases and processed the data using a review process. [Results] In the initial online search, we identified 12,174 potential studies. Finally, 22 studies met the specified criteria and were included for examination of risk factors for persistent pelvic girdle pain after delivery. Pain intensity and disability during pregnancy were risk factors for pelvic girdle pain persisting for over 6 months after delivery. The active straight leg raising test predicted the risk of persistent pelvic girdle pain after delivery. Dysfunction of the pelvic floor muscles was also a risk factor for persistent pelvic girdle pain. [Conclusion] Pain intensity and disability during pregnancy, positive provocation tests, active straight leg raising test, and musculoskeletal mechanics were positively associated with pelvic girdle pain persisting for over 3 months after delivery.