Lumbar-Pelvic Instability
Causes
Acute Low Back Injury
Chronic Low Back Pain
Post Abdominal or Pelvic Surgery
Pregnancy
Post Natal
Understanding Lumbar and Pelvic Instability
Passive Control of the Trunk
This is provided by the physical structures such as the vertebrae of the spine, the bones of the pelvic girdle, the ligaments between the bones, and the tendons and fascia
Active Control of the Trunk
Active control is provided by the postural and movement muscles around the spine and pelvis. These muscles produce core stability by working to support the bones (postural muscles) and provide appropriate movement (movement muscles).
- Pelvic floor
- Transversus abdominus
- Multifidus
- Diaphragm
- Rectus Abdominus
- Internal / external oblique
- Latissimus dorsi
- Ilioposas
Neural Control of the Trunk
Neural control of the trunk relies on sensory feedback from the joint receptors, ligament receptors and muscle receptors, and these work simultaneously to stabilise the spine in all positions. The neural control of the spine can be adversely impacted upon by injury, surgery, or pregnancy.
Assessment
Pelvic instability is assessed by a history and physical examination. This can involve assessing:
Position of the spine and pelvis in static positions
Position of the spine and pelvis through movement
Palpation of the joint movement in the pelvis and spinal coloumn
Real Time Ultrasound Assessment
Assessment using Real-Time Ultrasound tests the specific action of the muscles which should normally provide core stability around the trunk and pelvis. This helps us to understand how the active and neural control mechanisms are working. This may also be used to provide feedback to the client to help improve the function of these muscles.
Management
Management of lumbar-pelvic instability can occur through a number of stages.
Correct Alignment of Skeletal Structure
Pain from instability occurs due to the poor alignment of the pelvic and spinal joints. This can be corrected by joint mobilisation, muscle energy techniques, soft tissue techniques, stretching, dry needling.
Improve the Function of Core Stabilising Muscles
Initially, this is done using feedback from a Real Time Ultrasound machine where the exact function of the core stabilising muscles can be detected. Here we are working on developing Active and Neural control via the core muscles. Once these muscles are correctly activated the client is able to progress to a Physio Group Exercise based strengthening program.
Physio Group Exercise Strengthening to Enhance Functional Core Stability
Physio Group Exercise rehabilitation provides an opportunity to restore the structure and function of the core stability muscles, and provide greater efficiency when performing exercises involving the upper or lower body. Pilates inspired Physio Group Exercise is individually tailored to your specific requirements, such as return to sport, or return to work. For more information check out our Physio Group Exercise service page.
Book an Appointment
Book an appointment with our friendly team of Adelaide physiotherapists today and take the first step towards better health and wellbeing. We offer flexible scheduling to accommodate to you.