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The And Underlying Pathophysiology Of Lbpp

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The term lower back and pelvic pain (LBPP) is defined as the recurrent or continuous pain experienced between the posterior iliac crest and gluteal fold (Bergstrom et al., 2014). It is considered a common complication of pregnancy and often poorly treated and understood, affecting daily activities and mode of birth (University of Queensland, 2014). Therefore, it is important for midwives to identify and diagnose the pain early, with appropriate management to decrease discomfort and impact on the woman’s quality of life (Katonis et al., 2011). This assignment will provide information on the aetiology and underlying pathophysiology of LBPP, its relation to randomised controlled trials and how to recognise and support women with this …show more content…

Lastly, reproductive hormones have been found to be related with LBPP (Katonis et al., 2011). Levels of the hormone ‘relaxin’ significantly increases during pregnancy. The hormone is heavily induced in the pelvic joints to increase mobility for preparation upon delivery. However, this can cause instability of the ligaments and muscles due to stress, leading to pain in the lower back and pelvis (Olsen et al., 2009).

The pathogenic mechanisms leading to the development of LBPP remain poorly understood. However, ongoing research is advancing the understanding on the pathophysiology and many explanations have been advocated. Studies suggest that low back pain is commonly caused by disorders of the vertebrae and intervertebral joints, back muscles and ligaments, and spinal mechanics (Porth, 2011). The lower back (lumbar) is made up of five vertebrae (L1-L5) containing fibro cartilaginous discs to prevent the vertebrae from colliding, and protecting the spinal cord. The spine is stabilised by the multifidous muscles and ligaments of the back and abdomen. Additionally, facet joints support and enable spinal movement (Hughes et al., 2012) (Salzberg, 2012). An intervertebral disc consists of a gelatinous core covered by a fibrous ring (Hughes et al., 2012). Normally, the blood vessels and nerves flows outside of the disc, however if the discs loses its ability to manage physical forces, it

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