Symphysis Pubis Dysfunction, also called SPD, is a condition that is common among pregnant women. Pregnant women who suffer from this condition have difficulty climbing stairs and even walking. The condition arises from a change in structure of the symphysis pubis, a joint that exists in the front of the pelvic bone. Some yoga stretches may relieve SPD.
Symptoms
The most common symptom of this condition is pain in the front of the pelvis, especially when touched. Other symptoms include pain in the inner thigh. Sometimes you can even hear a clicking sound while walking as if the bones are grinding together. This condition, occurring in about one in 35 women, is due to hormones released during pregnancy that enable ligaments to soften for easier movement during child birth.
Exercises
Before beginning yoga exercises to treat SPD, your physician may advise you to try pelvic floor exercises. Physicians also advise patients about how to carry out daily activities to reduce the pain from this condition. Other self-help tips include sleeping with a pillow between your legs, using satin sheets to help facilitate turning over in bed, swimming to help relieve pressure, sitting down to dress and keeping your legs together as much as possible.
Yoga
Just as performing regular activities in a specific manner is important, yoga can help relieve the pain to a large extent. But, it's a good idea to check with your physician and consult a yoga instructor to make certain you perform yoga poses correctly and do not worsen the symptoms of SPD. One of the best yoga exercises for SPD is the cat stretch. This can be done by kneeling down and keeping your hands in front of you. Move the head upward and arch your back to get the right stretch, according to Well Mother.
Considerations
Avoid yoga movements and exercises -- including prenatal exercises -- that require you to assume any postures that are asymmetrical, require you to stand on one leg or open your thighs wide. Learning the right breathing technique can help in reducing the pain associated with SPD. These are also helpful during the actual process of labor. The fish pose can help relax the neck, shoulders and spine, along with the pelvis. This can be done by lying on your back and then arching the chest upward while keeping your hip and head on the ground.
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