Relationship Between Myopathic Gait and Lumbopelvic Pain in the 3rd Trimester of Pregnancy

Abstract

Background: Lumbopelvic pain is a common complication during pregnancy, affecting 50-70% of women. The discomfort is primarily noted in the lower back and tends to increase during the third trimester due to significant biomechanical and morphological changes. These changes include a 30% increase in abdominal mass due to the growing uterus and fetus, which often leads to postural modifications and a characteristic 'waddle' gait in pregnant women.

Objective: The study aims to explore the relationship between lumbopelvic pain and myopathic gait during the third trimester of pregnancy.

Methods: A cross-sectional observational study was conducted at HLH AMTH Lady Willington Hospital, involving 270 pregnant women in their third trimester who reported lumbopelvic pain. The study employed several diagnostic tools and measures: Active Straight Leg Raise (SLR) test to identify pain within the range of 30 to 70 degrees. Oswestry Disability Low Back Pain Questionnaire to assess the impact of back pain on daily activities. Numeric Pain Rating scale to quantify pain levels. Stopwatch for timing transfers over a 6-meter distance to calculate walking speed. Goniometer to measure hip flexion, hip extension, and foot eversion. Measuring tape to record step width, stride length, and step length. Trendelenburg Sign to detect pelvic instability.

Results: The findings indicate a weak but significant correlation between myopathic gait and lumbopelvic pain in the third trimester of pregnancy. Contrary to expectations, evidence of a waddling gait was not commonly observed among participants.

Conclusion: While lumbopelvic pain is prevalent among pregnant women in their third trimester, the anticipated waddling gait was not a typical manifestation. The study underscores the need for tailored treatment strategies that address lumbopelvic pain without necessarily focusing on gait abnormalities.

Keywords: Lumbopelvic pain, Myopathic gait, Pregnancy, Trendelenburg sign, Waddling gait, Lordosis