Effect of pregnancy exercises and education on pregnancy related musculoskeletal discomforts

Abstract

Aim. Women experience significant physiological and anatomical adaptations during pregnancy to meet the maternal and foetal demands. Biomechanical and hormonal factors, ligament laxity, posture and weight gain may put lot of stress on musculoskeletal system which may in turn induce various musculoskeletal symptoms in pregnancy. Most of the women believe that physical activity during pregnancy is harmful to maternal and foetal health, which results reduction in their routine physical activity. Physical inactivity during gestational period leads to various maternal discomforts and complications. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the effect of structured antenatal exercise programme and education on pregnancy related musculoskeletal discomforts. Material and Methods. Total of 186 mothers were recruited for the study. 94 Participants were selected as the study group samples and 92 were chosen as the control group .The study group received structured antenatal classes and education in addition to routine antenatal care whereas the control group received routine antenatal care and exercises. Antenatal classes were conducted as individualised therapy for the interventional group along with routine antenatal care from 20th week of gestation. The primary outcome measure was pregnancy induced musculoskeletal dysfunction scale (PMDS scale). PMDS scale was assessed at 20, 24 and 32 weeks. Results and Discussion. There was a significant difference in the values of low back pain, symphysis pubic pain, knee pain, pelvic girdle pain and edema at 32 weeks (p value p< 0.05). Exercise during pregnancy increased the β endorphin levels and decrease the perception of pain and pregnancy induced musculoskeletal symptoms. Conclusion. The antenatal exercise programme and education were found to be effective in reducing pregnancy induced musculoskeletal dysfunction. Hence we suggest the pregnancy exercise and education programme in routine antenatal care to improve maternal quality of life.