Postpartum Pelvic Instability (Pelvic Joint Weakness After Pregnancy)
Postpartum pelvic instability occurs when the joints and ligaments of the pelvis remain overly mobile after pregnancy and childbirth. This can lead to pain, weakness, and difficulty with everyday movements. Physical therapy helps restore pelvic stability, rebuild strength, and support postpartum recovery.
Do you feel unsteady or unstable in your hips or pelvis after giving birth? Are you experiencing increased low back pain or difficulty with movements like standing on one leg, climbing stairs, or getting out of bed? These symptoms may be related to postpartum pelvic instability, a condition that can develop when the pelvis has not fully regained stability after pregnancy.
At Rose Physical Therapy in Washington, DC, physical therapists provide specialized postpartum care designed to help rebuild pelvic strength, reduce discomfort, and restore confident movement.
Understanding Postpartum Pelvic Instability
During pregnancy, hormonal changes—especially increased relaxin—allow the ligaments of the pelvis to become more flexible to prepare for childbirth.
This increased ligament laxity can lead to greater movement at:
• The sacroiliac (SI) joints
• The pubic symphysis at the front of the pelvis
After delivery, some individuals experience lingering instability if the supporting muscles and ligaments have not fully recovered.
This condition may appear weeks or even months postpartum.
What Causes Postpartum Pelvic Instability?
Several factors may contribute to ongoing pelvic instability after childbirth:
• Persistent hormonal ligament laxity
• Weakness in the pelvic floor or deep core muscles
• Strain to the SI joints or pubic symphysis during delivery
• Prolonged or difficult labor
• Recovery from cesarean delivery
• Returning to exercise or lifting before rebuilding core strength
These factors can make it harder for the pelvis to stabilize during daily activities.
Common Symptoms
Postpartum pelvic instability may cause:
• A sensation that the pelvis shifts, clicks, or gives way
• Pain in the low back, buttocks, groin, or inner thighs
• Increased discomfort with standing or walking
• Pain when rolling in bed or changing positions
• Difficulty climbing stairs or standing on one leg
• Instability when carrying your baby or lifting objects
These symptoms can make everyday tasks more challenging during the postpartum period.
How Postpartum Pelvic Instability Is Evaluated
At Rose Physical Therapy, evaluation includes a comprehensive assessment of postpartum recovery.
Your therapist may evaluate:
• Birth history and current activity level
• Pelvic alignment and joint mobility
• Stability of the SI joints and pubic symphysis
• Strength of the glutes, core, and pelvic floor
• Functional movement patterns such as walking and standing
This information helps guide a personalized rehabilitation plan.
How Physical Therapy Helps Postpartum Recovery
Physical therapy focuses on rebuilding strength and restoring pelvic stability.
Treatment at Rose Physical Therapy may include:
Manual therapy
Gentle techniques to improve pelvic alignment and reduce pain.
Pelvic stabilization exercises
Strengthening the core, glutes, and pelvic floor.
Movement retraining
Teaching safe strategies for lifting, carrying, and caring for your baby.
Supportive strategies
Education on bracing techniques or pelvic support belts if needed.
Mobility and flexibility work
Stretching tight muscles in the hips and lower back.
Personalized home exercise program
Exercises that support recovery and fit into your daily routine.
Rebuild Pelvic Stability with Rose Physical Therapy
Postpartum pelvic discomfort is common, but it does not have to be something you simply live with. At Rose Physical Therapy, treatment focuses on helping you rebuild strength, restore pelvic stability, and return to daily activities with confidence.
If postpartum pelvic instability is affecting your daily life, Rose Physical Therapy is here to help. Schedule an evaluation at one of our Washington, DC locations:
Farragut North
Friendship Heights
Navy Yard
Early treatment can help restore stability, reduce pain, and support a stronger postpartum recovery.