AN INTEGRATED THERAPY FOR PERIPARTUM PELVIC INSTABILITY - A STUDY OF THE BIOMECHANICAL EFFECTS OF PELVIC BELTS

OBJECTIVES: The objectives of this study were to investigate the influence of pelvic belts on the stability of the pelvis and to discuss the treatment of peripartum pelvic instability. STUDY DESIGN: In six human pelvis-spine preparations, sagittal rotation in the sacroiliac joints was induced by bidirectional forces directed at the acetabula. Weight-bearing was mimicked by the application of a compressive force to the spine. The biomechanical effect of a pelvic belt was measured in 12 sacroiliac joints. RESULTS: The pelvic belt caused a significant decrease in the sagittal rotation in the sacroiliac joints. The effect of a 100 N belt did not differ significantly from that of a 50 N belt. CONCLUSION: The combination of a pelvic belt and muscle training enhances pelvic stability. The load of the belt can be relatively small; location is more important. The risk of symphysiodesis, especially as a result of the insertion of bone grafts, is emphasized.