Thesis (M.Sc.) - Cairo University - Faulty of Physical Therapy - Department of Physical Therapy for Gynecology and Obstetrics

Symphysis pubis dysfunction (SPD) is a common and debilitating condition affecting woman, which mostly happens during and after pregnancy. It has a significant impact on daily living activities and social life.The purpose of the study was to determine the effect of ultrasonic therapy on SPD postpartum. Thirty postpartum women after normal vaginal delivery participated in this study.They experienced pain on symphysis pubis area with or without radiation of pain. They had diastasis of symphysis pubis more than 10 mm. Their ages ranged from 20-40 years and their body mass index (BMI) was more than 24.9 Kg/ m2. They were randomly distributed into two equal groups. Both control and study groups received instructions about back care and advised to wear pelvic belt support for 4 weeks. In addition, the study group received 12 sessions of ultrasound, 3times/week for 4 weeks. Pain intensity was assessed using Short-form McGill Questionnaire and symphysis pubis dysfunction was assessed using sonography.Results showed there was a significant decrease (p>0.001) in pain intensity and symphysis pubic distance in the control and study groups post-treatment. Also, there was no significant difference between groups pre-treatment in pain intensity (p=0.36) and symphysis pubis distance (p=0.26). However, there was a significant decrease between groups postpartum in pain intensity (p=0.007) and symphysis pubic distance (p=0.01) in favor of the study group.It can be concluded thatultrasound is an effective method for improving pain and decreasing the symphysis pubis distance in women with SPD

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