Chronic Post Partum Osteitis Pubis Managed with Chiropractic
Robert Fano, DC Bio & Linda Mullin, DC Bio
Journal of Pediatric, Maternal & Family Health – Chiropractic ~ Volume 2013 ~ Issue 1 ~ Pages 15-17
Abstract
Introduction: This case report describes a 32 year old female who was referred to a chiropractic office with MRI confirmed, pregnancy induced osteitis pubis of two years duration. The patient was unable to walk unassisted due to pain. While osteitis pubis is well documented in athletes with repetitive use injuries that are healed with rest, the literature does not discuss chronic post partum osteitis pubis in a non-athlete that remains unresolved after rest.
Methods: Initial treatment of chiropractic adjustments utilizing contact-specific, high velocity, low-amplitude adjustments (i.e.: Gonstead technique) were applied to the site of sacroiliac subluxation with mild improvement. The addition of strengthening exercises to one-sided abdominal oblique and the contralateral adductor muscles were used as adjunct therapy to stabilize the pubic symphysis and resolve the condition.
Discussion: Pregnancy creates unique structural stresses to the female body. In the three joint complex of the pelvis, asymmetry of movement can create excessive instability in other parts of the complex. Adjustments serve to normalize motions and remove these stresses. In this chronic case, chiropractic adjustments to the sacroiliac joint in addition to strengthening exercises provided complete restoration of symmetry and resolution of chronic osteitis pubis.
Conclusions: After failed conventional care of rest and orthopedic supports, chiropractic adjustments and therapeutic exercise resolved the patient’s osteitis pubis and normalized her functional ability.
Keywords: chiropractic, osteitis pubis, adjustment, subluxation, spinal manipulative therapy, therapeutic exercise
