PELVIC PAIN
Many patients suffer from pelvic pain, which may include lower abdominal
pain, numbness or tingling in the vaginal region. This may also include
painful intercourse or be associated with pain during sitting, such as
through a movie or a long meeting. It may affect urination and may be
caused or worsened by low back pain.
Pelvic pain is often connected to problems within the joints, nerves and
muscles around the pelvis. Contributing factors to this may be scars from
surgery or child birth. Often times, patients who have been in pain for a
number of weeks begin unconsciously holding parts of their body in a tense
position to protect themselves from further pain. These positions contribute
to weakness and painful muscles, strained joints and compressed nerves that
further add to the condition.
A physical therapist, with experience in dealing with pelvic floor pain
will provide a thorough evaluation of the muscles and joints around the
pelvis, with specific emphasis placed on the pelvic floor. Patient programs
may include some of the following:
- Manual therapy techniques for tight or tense muscles.
- Electrical stimulation, TENS (Transcutaneous electrical nerve
stimulation), heat, cold or ultrasound for pain relief to tissues.
- Exercises designed specifically to address involved muscles.
- Manual improvement of joint motion.
- Teaching patients to change poor habits such as muscle holding
patterns in a tense position.
- Education for proper rest positions, relaxation techniques, and work
postures.
If you think physical therapy would reduce your pelvic floor pain, consult
your physician for a referral to Family Physical Therapy Services
to begin a program under the guidance of a therapist who specializes
in this area.
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