If you’re dealing with pain or instability in your pelvic area—especially when walking, standing, or turning over in bed—it could be something called pubic symphysis dysfunction. Even though this condition can seriously affect your daily life, many people haven’t heard of it until they experience it themselves.
Pubic symphysis dysfunction happens when the joint at the front of your pelvis (where the two pubic bones meet) becomes irritated or overly mobile. It’s especially common during pregnancy and after childbirth, but it can affect anyone—regardless of gender or stage of life.
However, here’s some good news: Chiropractic care offers a gentle, natural way to relieve symptoms and support your body’s healing. And understanding what’s happening in your body is the first step toward getting back to feeling like yourself again! So, let’s take a closer look.
What Is Pubic Symphysis Dysfunction?
The pubic symphysis is a joint located at the front of your pelvis where the two pubic bones meet. Unlike most joints in your body, the pubic symphysis doesn’t allow for much movement. Instead, it’s primarily designed for stability, with a fibrocartilage disc between the bones and strong ligaments holding everything in place.
Pubic symphysis dysfunction occurs when this joint becomes unstable or inflamed. The condition is characterized by pain in the pubic area that may radiate to the lower abdomen, groin, inner thighs, or lower back. Many people describe the pain as sharp, burning, or grinding, especially during movement.
Activities that involve weight-bearing on one leg—like climbing stairs, walking, or getting in and out of a car—often intensify the discomfort. Some people even report hearing or feeling clicking or grinding sensations in the joint during movement.
While pregnancy is a common trigger due to hormonal changes and altered mechanics, pubic symphysis dysfunction can also result from:
- Repetitive strain from athletic activities
- Pelvic injuries from falls or accidents
- Postural imbalances that place uneven stress on the pelvis
- Asymmetrical movement patterns during walking or exercise
The pain and limited mobility associated with this condition can significantly impact daily functioning, making even simple tasks challenging.
How Chiropractic Care Addresses Pubic Symphysis Dysfunction
Chiropractic treatment offers several advantages when addressing pubic symphysis dysfunction, including the following.
Restoring Proper Pelvic Alignment
A key component of chiropractic care for pubic symphysis dysfunction involves gentle adjustments to restore proper alignment of the pelvis. When the pelvis is misaligned, uneven pressure on the pubic symphysis can cause or worsen dysfunction.
Your chiropractor will use specific, gentle techniques to address imbalances in the sacroiliac joints (where your spine meets your pelvis) and the pubic symphysis itself. These adjustments help redistribute forces more evenly across the pelvis, reducing strain on the pubic joint.
Addressing Related Spinal Issues
Pubic symphysis dysfunction rarely occurs in isolation. Misalignments in the lumbar spine or sacrum often contribute to or result from pelvic instability. A comprehensive chiropractic approach addresses these related areas to provide more complete relief.
Your chiropractor will evaluate your entire spine, not just the pelvic region, to identify patterns of dysfunction that may be contributing to your symptoms. This whole-body approach helps ensure that treatment addresses the root causes rather than just temporarily relieving symptoms.
Soft Tissue Support and Rehabilitation
Chiropractic care for pubic symphysis dysfunction also typically includes attention to the surrounding soft tissues. Muscles, ligaments, and tendons all play crucial roles in supporting proper pelvic function.
Your chiropractor may incorporate techniques to address tight muscles that pull unevenly on the pelvis or recommend specific exercises to strengthen weakened muscles that should be providing stability. This balanced approach helps create lasting improvement by supporting the body’s natural healing processes.
For pregnant or postpartum patients, special consideration is given to the unique needs and challenges of this period. Techniques are modified appropriately, and additional support strategies may be recommended to accommodate the body’s changing needs.
Personalized Guidance for Daily Activities
Managing pubic symphysis dysfunction effectively requires attention to how everyday activities affect the condition. Your chiropractor can provide valuable guidance on:
- Proper sleeping positions and pillow arrangements to minimize strain
- Modifications for sitting, standing, and walking to reduce pain
- Safe ways to perform necessary activities like getting in and out of vehicles
- Appropriate exercise options that support recovery without aggravating symptoms
This practical advice helps you maintain the benefits of treatment between appointments and prevent setbacks caused by inadvertently stressful activities.
With the At Last Chiropractic team, we can help you find relief. Your Lithia chiropractor is here to help. Book your appointment with us today!
