Pregnancy is a stage of numerous physical changes in the body. The primary reason for this is the adaptations of the body to accommodate the growing fetus. These physical changes during pregnancy may cause alterations in one’s posture, mobility, and musculoskeletal functions. In some instances, it may result in joint problems.
Due to an increase in body mass, hormonal changes, and pelvic pressure, hip pain is a common issue pregnant women face. Although some cases of mild pain are easy to handle, chronic pain may need evaluation. In this case, a timely consultation with an accomplished orthopedic surgeon like Dr Waqas Javed helps you get the right diagnosis and, therefore, an appropriate treatment approach. His competency in dealing with complex cases enables him to guide patients on safe and most suitable strategies, especially in pregnancy.
In this blog, you can determine the main reasons for hip pain during pregnancy, the symptoms of this condition, and safe and sound treatment options.
If one feels hip pain during pregnancy, it does not always have to do with the developing fetus at all. It can just be a normal joint problem. So, it’s worth knowing which one you are dealing with. Hip pain during pregnancy may have different presentations.
In most cases, it tends to present itself in the form of a dull, achy pain, pressure, stiffness or sharp pain. In some women, pain is constantly felt, while in others it is felt only during specific actions.
Symptoms may be described as follows.
The severity of the symptoms can vary. But severe and persistent pain is not only an indicator of something being wrong but also a call to seek medical help.
There are several ways in which pregnancy may affect your hip joint due to changes in your body. The baby growing inside you, an increase in weight and changes in posture might put extra pressure on your hips and pelvic region. Some common reasons for hip pain in pregnancy can be listed as follows.
Relaxin is a hormone whose levels increase in pregnancy to allow loosening of some ligaments in the pelvic region. This enables the body to prepare for the birth process.
Unfortunately, loose ligaments decrease joint stability. The muscles in the pelvic region have to work extra hard to compensate for the instability. All this could cause hip pain in pregnancy.
As the pregnancy advances, there is an increase in the weight being carried in the front of the body because of the baby. In turn, the posture of the woman changes accordingly, adding pressure to the lower back and pelvic area.
Some women develop an inward curve in the lower back. Others modify their way of walking to help them maintain balance. With time, these changes put pressure on muscles and joints.
Another problem that pregnant women often face is pelvic girdle pain. It affects the pelvic joints and surrounding structures, including those near the hips.
The major impact of this pain is difficulty in walking, climbing stairs, turning in bed, or standing on one foot. For some women, pain occurs while exiting a car or putting on clothes while standing up.
As the fetus continues to grow, there is an increase in the pressure within the pelvis. It could be a reason for pain in the hips, pelvis, lower back, and surrounding areas.
The increased pressure becomes more pronounced at a late stage of pregnancy. In such a condition, sustaining a fixed position may bring about the feeling of pain. It is a temporary issue and often resolves on its own after delivery.
Pregnancy could cause changes in how muscles in the hips, abdomen, and lower back function. While some muscles tighten, others strain to compensate.
Any physical activity, including standing and walking for a prolonged period and lifting objects, could be a source of muscle pain. Pre-existing hip conditions could also be more pronounced.
Getting comfortable while sleeping becomes more difficult as the pregnancy advances. Most females find relief by sleeping on one side. It can put a strain on the hip joint and the soft tissues around it.
This can result in pain while lying down or even during sleep. The pain can especially be troubling if it affects one’s sleep.
Indeed, pregnancy is a sensitive condition. A normal medicine or treatment strategy which is highly beneficial could be harmful for a pregnant woman. So here are the options that can help with hip pain during pregnancy.
Regular exercise greatly helps in maintaining strong muscles and flexibility of the joints. It also reduces stiffness and enhances mobility. But it is very important to make sure that the exercises are not strenuous.
It would be better to seek help from a professional physiotherapist who can recommend exercises for hip joint pain during pregnancy and guide you on strengthening the pelvic and hip muscles without putting unnecessary strain on the joints.
Even small adjustments to regular motion could lower the pressure placed on the hip joints. Remaining in an upright posture and not standing for too long can make a difference.
Carefully moving the body while getting out of bed or turning around will also minimize any pain. Careful motions are especially helpful when there is pelvic pain.
The use of pillows could reduce hip pressure. Placing a pillow between the knees supports the pelvis. For some women, use of a pregnancy pillow to support their abdomen could also be beneficial.
The application of a warm cloth can assist in relaxing stiff muscles. Intensive heat therapy is, however, not recommended during pregnancy. Application of a cold pack through a cloth can assist in relieving pain and reducing inflammation in some instances. It is important not to apply cold packs directly to the skin.
Wearing supportive and comfortable footwear can assist in improving stability when moving around. High-heeled footwear and uncomfortable shoes may put stress on the lower parts of the body. That’s why choosing supportive footwear is crucial, particularly if your hip joint is a problem. In general, comfortable footwear can make movement easier and prevent stress on joints.
If you find other ways to manage hip pain during pregnancy ineffective, medicines can give you relief. There are some pain medications which are safe for use during pregnancy, but not all. It is therefore vital to consult the physician before taking any pain medications. The right drug and dose may vary depending on the situation.
| Treatment | How it helps | Pregnancy safety note |
|---|---|---|
| Gentle Exercise & Physiotherapy | Strengthens pelvic and hip muscles, reduces stiffness, and improves mobility. | Generally safe when exercises are gentle. Work with a physiotherapist trained in pregnancy care. |
| Posture & Movement Improvement | Reduces pressure on the hip joints and can ease pelvic pain. | Generally safe. Avoid standing for prolonged periods and move carefully when getting out of bed or changing positions. |
| Pillow Support | Supports the pelvis and reduces pressure on the hips while sleeping. | Safe. Place a pillow between the knees or use a pregnancy pillow for additional support. |
| Warm or Cold Therapy | Warmth can relax stiff muscles, while cold may help reduce pain and inflammation. | Use with care. Avoid excessive heat; wrap cold packs in a cloth and never apply them directly to the skin. |
| Comfortable Footwear | Improves stability and reduces stress on the hips and lower body. | Generally safe. Avoid high heels and shoes that provide inadequate support. |
| Pain Medication | May relieve pain when other measures are not enough. | Consult a physician before taking any medication, as not all painkillers are suitable during pregnancy and the appropriate dose varies by individual. |
Indeed, hip replacement surgery can be carried out during pregnancy, although cases are very rare. As the procedure is major in nature, elective hip replacement surgeries are always postponed until after delivery. While doctors aim to treat the problem through safer means like medication, surgery will be appropriate only when there is a serious hip injury, infection, or other medical conditions that call for immediate replacement.
In such a situation, a specialist panel including an orthopaedic surgeon, obstetrician, and anaesthetist may play their part in making the decision.
Hip pain during pregnancy could make simple movements difficult. Contributing factors are numerous. Top of the list are hormonal imbalance, posture, extra weight gain, pelvic girdle pain, and pressure from the developing fetus. It may be common but should not be overlooked.
Exercise, physiotherapy, sleeping positions, proper shoes, and pain relief medicines can be useful in treating this condition. The choice of treatment will depend on the cause of the problem and the general health of the patient. Being under the care of a compassionate orthopedic surgeon like Dr Waqas Javed can help you to diagnose whether the pain is normal in pregnancy or needs further evaluation.
His clinical insight and extensive experience allow him to manage sensitive cases, including women during pregnancy. At an orthopedic treatment center, patients can receive appropriate guidance to manage pain while maintaining their fitness and comfort.
