Examining the effect of a pelvic compression belt on static stability in postpartum women: a pilot study

Engineering of Sport 15 - Proceedings from the 15th International Conference on the Engineering of Sport (ISEA 2024) Women undergo several physical and physiological changes during pregnancy, childbirth, and following childbirth (postpartum). During pregnancy there are many changes in the posture and alignment of a woman’s body, which can affect joint proprioception for pregnant women, reduced proprioception can lead to an increase in instability and falls. These changes continue into the postpartum period therefore women’s balance is decreased throughout the postpartum period. The compensations made due to the postural realignment of the spine and pelvis can lead to discomfort and pain symptoms. The musculoskeletal discomforts which are most reported amongst pregnant women are related to pain in the lower back and pelvic joints. Whilst some women’s symptoms will be alleviated after childbirth, 22% of women will continue to experience pelvic girdle pain 6 months after delivery. Pelvic girdle pain appears to be influenced by the sacroiliac (SI) joints and its supporting structures. A pelvic belt provides external force to the SI joints, stabilising the pelvic ring, and may have a beneficial effect on postural stability. Ostgaard et al found that 83% of women experienced reduced pelvic girdle pain and lower back pain when wearing a pelvic belt. Continued pain into the postpartum period and a fear of falling are both barriers to a return to physical activity. Being able to reduce pain and increase stability will allow women to feel more comfortable and confident when returning to physical activity.  </p

Examining the effect of a compression pelvic belt on static stability in postpartum women: a pilot study

This abstract paper was presented at ISEA 2024, Loughborough University, 8th July 2024 - 11th July 2024.</p

Examining the effect of external force applied to the pelvic region on postpartum women's static stability [Abstract]

Examining the effect of external force applied to the pelvic region on postpartum women's static stability [Abstract]</p

Examining the effect of external force applied to the pelvic region on postpartum women's static stability [Abstract]

Examining the effect of external force applied to the pelvic region on postpartum women's static stability [Abstract]</p

Investigating the physical activity habits and apparel choices of perinatal women

Background: This study investigates the physical activity and apparel choices of perinatal women. The perinatal period involves significant anatomical, physiological, and biomechanical changes as the body prepares to carry and deliver a child, and the recovery process which follows. Despite the recognised benefits of physical activity returning to physical activity postpartum can be difficult. Methods: 106 postpartum women completed an online questionnaire, exploring women’s physical activity habits before, during, and after pregnancy, along with their use of activewear/compression aids during this time. Statistical analyses, including chi-squared tests, investigated the relationship between initiation of physical activity postpartum (by and after 12 weeks) and: delivery method (vaginal, c-section, assisted), perineal trauma, activewear purchase, and pre-pregnancy activity level. Thematic analysis was applied to identify themes from participant’s answers.Results: A vaginal delivery correlated with a higher likelihood of resuming physical activity within 12 weeks postpartum. Moreover, a high level of activity pre-pregnancy was associated with a high level of physical activity postpartum. The study identified key reasons for the cessation of physical activity during pregnancy including, discomfort, tiredness, and misinformation. Barriers hindering the return to physical activity postpartum included discomfort, misinformation, and time constraints. Few participants used compression aids in the postpartum period, with the majority leveraging them to alleviate pain (71%). Conclusions: This study highlights a crucial gap in utilisation of compression garmentsduring the postpartum period. Understanding these factors is pivotal in enhancing support for postpartum women in their pursuit of resuming physical activity.</p