Pelvic Health Pain Blog
What is chronic pelvic pain?
Pelvic pain is a common issue that both men and women can face. It can have a significant impact on daily life. According to the International Pelvic Pain Society, nearly 25 million Americans and 25% of the world’s population, suffer from chronic pelvic pain conditions such as endometriosis, irritable bowel syndrome, interstitial cystitis, and myofascial pelvic pain to name a few. In honor of Pelvic Pain Awareness Month, it’s important to raise awareness about the causes and treatment options for pelvic pain.
What causes pelvic pain?
Pelvic pain can be caused by a variety of factors, including muscle tension, inflammation, or nerve irritation. Medical conditions which can cause pelvic pain can include, but are not limited to urinary tract infections, endometriosis, fibroids, ovarian cysts, pelvic inflammatory disease, and past surgeries. Common treatment strategies for pelvic pain may include physical therapy, medication, lifestyle changes, and in some cases, surgery. Physical therapy can help strengthen the pelvic floor muscles and improve overall pelvic health. Medications such as pain relievers or muscle relaxants may be prescribed to help manage symptoms. Lifestyle changes such as exercise, stress management, and dietary modifications can also play a role in managing pelvic pain. In some cases, surgery may be necessary to address the underlying causes of pelvic pain. It’s important to work with a healthcare provider to determine the best treatment plan for your specific situation.
What is a pelvic health therapist?
People often think of physical therapy as a treatment option for injury recovery for your neck, or spine, or following a joint replacement surgery. Many people do not know that physical therapy can also assist with pelvic pain and dysfunction with specialized pelvic health therapists. Pelvic health therapists are healthcare professionals who focus on treating conditions related to the pelvic region. They are specifically trained to address a variety of issues such as pelvic pain, incontinence, pelvic organ prolapse, pain with intercourse, postpartum recovery, and pelvic and abdominal scar management. They use a variety of techniques, including manual therapy, exercises, and education to help improve pelvic health and function.
How can physical therapy help?
Physical therapy is often a key component of treatment for pelvic pain, as it can help improve flexibility, strength, and coordination in the muscles around the pelvis to reduce pain patterning. Our therapists perform a thorough examination of areas surrounding the pelvic floor including the back, pelvis, hips, and abdominals. They ensure comfort and empathy while working with patients. Exercises and treatment techniques that may be used include: improving coordination of pelvic floor contractions with breath; hands-on techniques to assist in the mobilization of joints and soft tissue; and stretching and mobility of areas of restriction. By working on the imbalances within the muscle’s strength and tissue mobility, physical therapy aids in the reduction of pain patterning. Education is also a key component of physical therapy which will assist you in modifying lifestyle factors that could be impacting your pain patterning such as diet or posturing throughout the day. It is important to see a physical therapist to obtain a personalized treatment plan.