Symptoms and Causes of Pelvic Floor Pain
In the US, approximately 15 percent of women report chronic pelvic pain. However, it is not a subject we feel comfortable talking about publicly, so often it can go undiagnosed and untreated. Chronic pelvic pain is pain in the area below your belly button and between your hips that lasts six months or longer. This can be severe and steady pain, intermittent pain, or pressure and cramping within your pelvis. Other symptoms may include pain during intercourse, pain while having a bowel movement or urinating, or pain when sitting for extended periods of time. Chronic pain can make it difficult to sleep, work, or enjoy life. It can also lead to depression and anxiety. Pelvic pain may stem from the musculoskeletal system, urinary tract, gastrointestinal tract, gynecological, or even psychological factors, so it is important to get evaluated to see what is causing your pain. Pelvic floor physical therapy is a huge component in the treatment of pelvic pain. During treatment, our specialized PT will address the muscular component of pain- teaching you to relax the muscles of the pelvic floor, may provide manual therapy of the pelvic floor muscles, as well perform myofascial release of painful trigger points of pelvic floor when necessary. There are several modalities that can assist in rehabilitation- biofeedback, electrical stimulation, and dilators, to name a few. Also during your visit, your PT will address the behavioral component of your pain- what you eat and drink, as well as bathroom and sleep habits. If you would also like emotional support, His Therapy offers a monthly women’s support group for chronic pelvic pain. Call our office today for more information and to reserve your spot. 864-534-1780.