Physical Therapy for Bladder, Pelvic, Abdominal Pain

Why Am I Experiencing Pelvic Pain?

Pelvic pain is pain felt in the lower abdomen, buttock, tailbone pelvis, hips, groin, or perineum (the area between the rectum and the scrotum or vagina). Pelvic pain affects up to 20% of people in the United States, including women and men.

How Physical Therapy Can Help With Pelvic Pain

Posture re-education – Correcting faulty stresses that may be contributing to pelvic pain.
Strengthening/flexibility exercises – To restore the muscle imbalances around the pelvis and to improve core strength.
Joint mobilizations/muscle energy technique – To correct joint alignment.
Myofascial release/soft tissue massage – To relax technique to tight muscle/connective tissues/scars.
Re-education of pelvic floor muscles – utilizing down training and EMG biofeedback.
Education to patient – To assist in understanding of condition and learning coping strategies.
Activity modification – To decrease pain and increase quality of life/activity tolerance.

DON’T SUFFER IN SILENCE!

Common Causes of Pelvic Pain

Pelvic pain can arise from various underlying conditions, including muscular issues, hormonal changes, and gastrointestinal disorders. Understanding these causes is crucial for effective treatment and management.

For instance, conditions like endometriosis, pelvic inflammatory disease, and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) are common contributors to pelvic pain. Each condition may require a tailored approach in physical therapy to address specific symptoms and improve overall quality of life.

Benefits of Physical Therapy for Pelvic Pain

Physical therapy offers numerous benefits for individuals suffering from pelvic pain, including pain relief, improved mobility, and enhanced strength. These therapies are designed to target the underlying causes of pain and promote healing.

Techniques such as manual therapy, exercise prescription, and biofeedback can significantly alleviate symptoms. For example, pelvic floor exercises can strengthen the muscles that support the pelvic organs, reducing discomfort and improving function.

What to Expect During Your First Physical Therapy Session

Your first physical therapy session will typically involve a comprehensive evaluation of your condition. The therapist will assess your medical history, perform physical examinations, and discuss your specific symptoms to create a personalized treatment plan.

During this session, you may also begin some initial therapeutic exercises aimed at easing your pain and enhancing your mobility. Understanding what to expect can help alleviate any anxiety you may have about starting physical therapy.

Long-term Management of Pelvic Pain

Managing pelvic pain often requires a long-term commitment to therapy and lifestyle adjustments. Patients are encouraged to engage in regular physical activity, maintain a healthy diet, and practice stress-reduction techniques.

Incorporating these strategies alongside physical therapy can lead to sustained relief from pelvic pain. For example, mindfulness practices and stretching routines can complement the therapeutic exercises learned in sessions, fostering a holistic approach to pain management.