An integrated therapy for peripartum pelvic instability: a study of the biomechanical effects of pelvic belts.

OBJECTIVES The objectives of this study were to investigate the influence of pelvic belts on the stability of the pelvis and to discuss the treatment of peripartum pelvic instability. STUDY DESIGN In six human pelvis-spine preparations, sagittal rotation in the sacroiliac joints was induced by bidirectional forces directed at the acetabula. Weight-bearing was mimicked by the application of a compressive force to the spine. The biomechanical effect of a pelvic belt was measured in 12 sacroiliac joints. RESULTS The pelvic belt caused a significant decrease in the sagittal rotation in the sacroiliac joints. The effect of a 100 N belt did not differ significantly from that of a 50 N belt. CONCLUSION The combination of a pelvic belt and muscle training enhances pelvic stability. The load of the belt can be relatively small; location is more important. The risk of symphysiodesis, especially as a result of the insertion of bone grafts, is emphasized.