Date of Award

1996

Document Type

Scholarly Project

Degree Name

Master of Physical Therapy (MPT)

Department

Physical Therapy

First Advisor

Beverly Johnson

Keywords

Low Back Pain; Pregnancy Complications

Abstract

Pregnancy is a time of great musculoskeletal change for a woman. Complaints of low back pain are a very common occurrence at this time. Many women regard this type of pain as a normal adjunct to pregnancy. However, most types of low back pain related to pregnancy are either treatable or avoidable. Mechanical, hormonal, and vascular factors may all contribute to low back pain. Differentiation of these different causes of low back pain is crucial to providing the patient with effective intervention plans. Physical therapists can provide evaluation, treatment, and low back pain management techniques to the expectant mother. Exercise, patient education, various modalities, manipulation, and/or the use of an orthosis outline possible treatment options. The purpose of this study is to provide physical therapists with information pertaining to the causes and treatment of low back pain. This knowledge will enable physical therapists to provide clinical management and prevention throughout the course of pregnancy.

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