Oti Mabuse opens up on Pelvic Girdle Pain – what it is and what to do if you have it
Strictly Come Dancing's professional dancer, Oti Mabuse has just taken to Instagram to share with her fans that she's been suffering from Symphysis Pubis Dysfunction, also known as Pelvic Girdle Pain (PGP).
The 33 year old, who announced in August she was expecting her first child with her husband and fellow pro dancer Marius Iepure, posted a video to Instagram to document her experience with PGP.
Dropping a video of her working out, alongside a lengthy caption about how she exercises with the pain, Oti said: "I completely fell off the bandwagon with my fitness and I immediately could feel it when I went back. My core strength was not what it was, my balance was off and my ability hold certain positions was gone. The pain started really slow but at night while sleeping would intensify."
She continued: "Aside from physiotherapy exercises, I still try continue to stay active in any way that is not painful. My level of activity depends on how severe my SPD is that day. It can be very frustrating if you used to exercise regularly and have to stop."
Oti then revealed that everyday activities like walking, sitting, and driving "all become a bit painful."
But in terms of Pelvic Girdle Pain, what actually is it, and what can you do if you have it? Hollie Grant, pre and postnatal expert and founder of The Bump Plan has explained the condition in depth, which hopefully, will help those out there who may be suffering.
What is Pelvic Girdle Pain (PGP)?
"Pelvic Girdle Pain, or PGP as it is often referred to, is the term used to describe any pain within the pelvic area during pregnancy," says Grant.
"It used to be called Symphysis Pubis Dysfunction (SPD), however this has changed to PGP as pain can be felt in all or some joints of the pelvis."
Despite being a common ailment many pregnant women experience – one in five will have some symptoms during pregnancy – thankfully, Grant details that it can be treated to avoid getting worse. She also explains that if you have had PGP before and are experiencing it again, "getting help early on can make a real difference to your pain and experience of pregnancy."
As well as the pelvis, sufferers may also feel pain in the hips or down the legs. According to Grant, everyone will experience slightly different symptoms. For some, the pain is mild and can be overcome, however, for others, it can be "debilitating."
How can you treat Pelvic Girdle Pain (PGP)?
Grant advises to flag your symptoms as early as possible to your GP or midwife. This is so women can find out whether there are any pelvic health physiotherapy services in the area.
"You may also want to look on the Squeezy App directory to find out if there are NHS services in your area as not all medical professionals will have awareness of this," Grant adds.
However, if you are finding it difficult to access NHS care for PGP, the expert shares that private help can be sought, too. Alongside this, Grant recommends searching for an osteopath or chiropractor who specialises in pregnancy.
How can you help ease symptoms of Pelvic Girdle Pain (PGP) at home?
There are an array of different activities and methods that people suffering from PGP can try. But first, the main thing Grant advises is to avoid pushing through the pain and "listen to what your body is telling you."
So, if you're currently experiencing pain due to PGP – as well as speaking to a doctor – Grant recommends the following exercises:
- Get dressed and put on your shoes sitting down
- Try and keep your legs parallel and symmetrical by putting pillows between them
Take the stairs one step at a time
Take smaller steps when walking
Sit down as often as you can when performing tasks, like cutting up vegetables, etc.
Wear supportive shoes and also avoid wearing heels
Avoid sitting cross legged
Keep your legs together when turning in bed. Grant says you can do this by squeezing them together with your bottom muscles and using your upper body to help you roll.
Hopefully, you're now better equipped with how to deal with Pelvic Girdle Pain (PGP) and can enjoy a smoother pregnancy thanks to these tips and tricks. Of course, while making sure you consult a medical professional for your symptoms.
Our thoughts are with Oti right now, and we're wishing her a speedy recovery and healthy pregnancy!
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