Lower Abdominal Pain

Prenatal Lower abdominal round ligament Pain

lowerabRound ligament pain overview

Round ligament pain is a common cause of abdominal pain during pregnancy.  It is due to normal changes that take place as your body is transformed by pregnancy. There are other, abnormal, treatable causes of pain in this area so it is important to inform your healthcare provider when you do experience abdominal pain during pregnancy.

Causes of round ligament pain

Round ligament pain is caused by overstretching of the associated ligaments. Movement is the main trigger for this condition. It occurs more commonly on the right side of the pelvis.

  • The uterus is normally the size of a pear. A thick round ligament round on each side of the uterus holds it in place suspended inside the abdomen. As the baby and thus the uterus grows in  size and weight these ligaments become very long and thin, stressing and tensing like rubber bands.
  • The ligaments pull and tug on nearby nerve fibers and sensitive structures, causing pain. Although round ligament pain is uncomfortable, it is also very normal.
  • A ligament spasm, an involuntary contraction or cramp, usually triggers a sharp pain. These spasms are found more frequently on the right side than the left because of the normal tendency of the uterus to turn to the right.
  • You might wake up at night with pain after having suddenly rolled over.
  • The pain may also be brought on by walking or exercise.

Home Care Options

  • Icing
  • Stretches: sitting and lying down, partner assisted
  • Orthotics, proper footwear
  • Sleep position with extra pillow, sitting position, driving car
  • Sacroiliac belt
  • Rehabilitative exercises

Office Care Options

  • Active Release Techniques
  • Graston
  • PNF
  • Massage
  • Mid and low back and sacroiliac chiropractic joint manipulation
  • Rehabilitative strengthening exercises
  • Custom-molded Biomechanical Orthotics

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