Minimal-contact physical interventions for pregnant women with musculoskeletal disorders: a systematic review of randomised and non-randomised clinical trials

Abstract

This review summarised minimal-contact physical interventions and their effects on pain, disability and quality of life in pregnant women with musculoskeletal disorders. Twelve bibliographic databases were systematically searched until December 31 2020. PEDro Scale was used for quality assessments. Narrative synthesis of 10 eligible studies was conducted. Education and multimodal home exercises plus handbooks/multimodal individual/group exercises; and self-management programmes improved pain intensity, sick leave and disability in pregnant women with lumbopelvic pain. Individual home-based progressive muscle relaxation exercises; unsupervised water exercises plus information using handbooks/videos/music; group multimodal exercises plus home exercises and information/education; and partner massage plus information using booklets/photographs reduced pain intensity in pregnant women with low back pain. Non-rigid/customised lumbopelvic belts plus information reduced pain intensity more significantly than rigid belts or stabilisation exercises plus information among pregnant women with pelvic girdle pain. Minimal contact interventions are effective and may be utilised during infectious disease pandemics.

Keywords: Minimal-contact; musculoskeletal disorders; pandemic; physical interventions; pregnancy.