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Pelvic Pain
Pelvic Pain is Not Normal….And it Can Be Treated
Pelvic pain generally can occur in the lower abdomen, low-back,
tailbone, vagina, rectum, or back of the leg or hip region.
Some symptoms of pelvic pain can include the following;
- pain with bowel movements
- constipation
- urinary retention/hesitancy
- urinary frequency/urgency and or burning
- pain with sitting/tailbone pain
- pain, pressure or burning around the genitals
- pain, pressure or burning around the rectum/anus
- clitoral pain or sensitivity
- penile pain or sensitivity
- pain before/during or after orgasm
- low back /sacroiliac joint pain
- Pain with pregnancy
The pain can be caused by a variety of medical diagnosis,
including;
- pudendal neuralgia
- levator ani syndrome
- dyspareunia
- vaginismus
- anismus
- interstitial cystitis
- chronic pelvic pain
- urethral syndrome
- vulvodynia
- ulvar vestibulitis
- urinary frequency
- urgency or pelvic muscle dysfunction
- Scars from trauma, surgery or childbirth
Both men and women suffer with pelvic pain and are
reluctant to talk to their health care providers,
friends or family. Pelvic pain impacts up to 1 in 7
women in the U.S. Many health care providers and
patients are unaware that a physical therapist
specializing in pelvic floor conditions can help.
What Are The Pelvic Floor Muscles?
The pelvic floor muscles attach to the bottom of the pelvis
to create a “floor” for our internal organs. They support
these organs and help stop the flow of urine and the passage
of gas. They also assist in normal sexual function and support
the pelvic low back region. The pelvic floor muscles may
respond to pain by tightening which causes increased muscle
tension, and therefore can further aggravate pelvic pain.
The muscles can become shortened over time and restrict
mobility.
How Can Physical Therapy Help?
Therapy can help teach you how to relax (with or without
biofeedback) your muscles so they can function normally.
Stretching or myofascial release may be indicated will address
postural issues and muscle imbalances. Active participation
in therapy can lead to improved muscle function, strength,
and flexibility.
What Should I Expect When I Go To Therapy?
Expect help!
Once you have scheduled
your first appointment with us, we will need to
gather important information to ensure we provide you with
the best possible care. A patient information packet
will need to be completed and provided to our staff when
you arrive for your first appointment. The patient
information packet will include a description of what to
expect, as well as a patient history questionnaire. Your
patient information packet can be mailed to your home or
downloaded here.
After a thorough evaluation has been performed, you and
your therapist will develop a treatment program. This program
may include:
- Examination of current musculoskeletal problems
- Stretching and strengthening exercises to improve
posture
- Biofeedback for normalization of muscle function
- Relaxation techniques for the pelvic floor muscles
- Examination of current musculoskeletal problems (low back/SI)
Stretching and strengthening exercises to improve posture
- Connective tissue manipulation
Neural mobilization
- Trigger point release
- Pelvic floor soft tissue mobilization
- Relaxation techniques for the pelvic floor muscles
Biofeedback for normalization of muscle function if needed
- Home exercise program
Patient/Family education/training
You will be asked to complete a bladder diary for 3 days
prior to the first appointment. This entails documenting
amounts and type of food and fluid intake and well as voiding
patterns. This is very important information to have completed
before your first visit.
Each person has unique and different needs, requiring varying
amounts of time and visits for therapy. Your plan of care
will be based on your b>individual needs. anywhere
from 10-20+ times. In addition to clinic visits, you will
receive exercises and instructions for things that you can
do in the privacy of your home.
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© Copyright
2004 Physical Therapy Specialists
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