A rare case of iliopsoas weakness in a woman after delivery - The effect of physiotherapy

Abstract

A 32-year-old female was referred to our hospital for physiotherapy. This woman had severe pain in the right thigh and weakness in the iliopsoas muscle. She had difficulty in walking. According to her history, the pain started in the 28th week of pregnancy and continued to deteriorate progressively in the following weeks. The gynecologist did not want to subject the woman to any examinations and prescribed bed rest until delivery. Ten days after delivery the symptoms had not subsided, and the woman sought the help of an orthopedist. X- rays revealed an increase in lumbrosacral angle, while tomography and magnetic resonance imaging revealed no disc herniation. Electromyogram was negative. The physician referred her for physiotherapy that included transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation, short wave diathermy and strengthening exercises. The woman after fifteen treatments was absolutely free of symptoms and could use the lower extremity in most of her daily activities. This case report shows the significant role of physiotherapy in the rehabilitation of iliopsoas weakness in a rare incident.