Tamar Kessel, MD will address Musculoskeletal Problems Unique to the Pregnant Female – SI Joint

Tamar Kessel, MD

Dysfunction, Pelvic Pain and Low Back Pain at the 6th Annual ONSF Medical Education Conference on Saturday, November 8th. Orthopedic surgeons, neurosurgeons, radiologists, sports medicine specialists, physiatrists and physical therapists will present topics related to treatment of musculoskeletal issues unique to females. 

“Back pain is extremely common during pregnancy.  50-75% of women will experience some kind of low back and pelvic girdle pain during pregnancy. Many of the physiologic and morphologic changes of pregnancy persist for 4-6 weeks postpartum. The good news is that most of the pain will disappear within 1-3 months after delivery. Back pain during pregnancy can usually be blamed on the increased mobility of the pelvic joints during pregnancy. A hormone called relaxin is released during pregnancy that allows ligaments to soften and joints to loosen in preparation for the birth process. This increased flexibility in the joints and ligaments can become a source of low back pain, especially with walking and stairs. In addition, a women’s center of gravity changes as the uterus becomes heavier and larger. As the center of gravity shifts forward, posture changes puts increased strain on the low back and hips. Luckily, there are many things women can do to ease back pain during pregnancy. Practicing correct posture, lifting correctly and exercise are just a few examples.”

The 6^th Annual ONSF Medical Education Conference will focus on treatment of musculoskeletal issues unique to females. Keynote speaker Joan Lunden, renowned author, journalist and TV host, will share her perspectives on women’s health.