Pelvic Pain

Dealing with pelvic pain can be incredibly tough and debilitating. It has the potential to significantly impact your daily life, making even simple tasks like walking a challenge and causing discomfort when trying to sit still. However, rest assured that there is hope and help available. By consulting with a skilled physical therapist, they can assess your unique situation and develop a tailored treatment plan to specifically address your pelvic pain. With their expertise and guidance, you can regain control over your life and find relief from the burdensome effects of pelvic pain.

Where does pelvic pain occur? 

The pelvis is the area between your abdomen and legs, and it contains many different parts of the human musculoskeletal system. For instance, the pelvis contains the bones of the pelvic girdle. This area also contains organs such as the intestines and reproductive organs. Muscles like the pelvic floor muscles are also located in the pelvis. 

Who can develop pelvic pain?

Both men and women can develop pelvic pain. However, this type of pain is much more common in women. Medical research reports that up to 32% of women of childbearing age worldwide experience chronic pelvic pain. It’s reported that up to 15% of U.S. men are affected by chronic pelvic pain. 

What issues can cause pelvic pain?

As mentioned above, the pelvic area is highly complex; there are many issues that can trigger pelvic pain. Physical therapists are trained to diagnose and treat the human musculoskeletal system. This means that they can help you address pelvic pain causes like: 

• Pelvic floor dysfunction — Pelvic floor dysfunction occurs when the pelvic floor muscles aren’t working properly. Loose or weak pelvic floor muscles can cause some painful problems; tightness in these muscles can also be problematic. In some cases, people can develop painful strains or tears in these important muscles. 
• Urinary incontinence — This issue can be a direct result of pelvic floor dysfunction. The pelvic floor muscles help control the flow of urine out of the bladder. If they’re too loose or weak, you may develop urinary incontinence. A medical study reveals that urinary incontinence affects more than 51% of women and nearly 14% of men in their lifetime. 
• Sacroiliac joint dysfunction — The sacroiliac joints are inflexible joints that connect the pelvic girdle to the lower spine. Sacroiliac joint dysfunction (SJD) occurs when one or both of these joints becomes inflamed. Gait issues, changes during pregnancy and weak muscles can lead to this condition. Medical researchers report that up to 62% of people develop SJD in their lifetime. 
• Pregnancy — In women, pregnancy is one of the most common causes of pelvic pain. It’s estimated that up to 20% of women develop pain in their pelvic area during pregnancy. Such pain is often the result of chemical changes that occur while women are pregnant. It can also be a result of posture changes from carrying a growing baby. Women are more likely to develop pelvic pain during pregnancy if they have had such pain before. 

How can physical therapists address pelvic pain? 

Finding out the source of your pelvic pain is the first step a physical therapist can take to help you, but they won’t stop there. They can also use their knowledge of musculoskeletal disorders that can cause pelvic pain and the many therapy techniques at their disposal to treat your pain. Your plan will be personalized to fit your symptoms, goals and needs. This unique therapy plan may contain therapy methods like: 

• Pelvic floor rehab — One of the most common treatment techniques used for pelvic pain is pelvic floor rehab. This technique focuses on stretching and strengthening the muscles of your pelvic floor. It may also involve biofeedback therapy designed to help you exercise more control over your body functions. Breathing exercises are often a part of pelvic floor rehab as well; these can help you relax tight muscles in your pelvis and pelvic floor. 
• Therapeutic exercises — Your therapist may also prescribe exercises that target areas that are closely linked to the pelvic area. This may include therapeutic exercises for your abs, lower back and upper legs. Such exercises will help improve strength and flexibility in these areas. In turn, this can help take some of the burden off your pelvic muscles.
• Dry needling — Myofascial trigger points in the pelvic area or areas near the pelvis can be a source of pelvic pain. Your therapist can use a technique called dry needling to break up these trigger points. This therapy method uses very thin needles, and it isn’t likely to cause significant discomfort.
• Soft tissue mobilization — Physical therapists can use their hands to perform many therapy techniques, and soft tissue mobilization is one example. This technique is designed to reduce tension in soft tissue. It can also help break down scar tissue from previous soft tissue injuries. The primary goals of soft tissue mobilization are to improve tissue mobility and decrease pain caused by soft tissue restriction.

Find effective treatment for pelvic pain at SSOR

Ready to say goodbye to persistent pelvic pain? At SSOR, we’re here to help you get back to feeling your best. Our dedicated specialists, with their vast experience in pelvic floor rehab, therapeutic exercises, dry needling, and soft tissue mobilization, are ready to create a personalized therapy plan tailored just for you.

We understand that each person’s journey is unique, and we’re committed to addressing your individual concerns and needs. By choosing us, you’re taking a step towards reducing and preventing pelvic pain, and benefiting from our expertise in treating musculoskeletal disorders.

Don’t allow pelvic pain to hinder your progress any further. Take the initiative and schedule an appointment today at our well-equipped centers in Westwood, Shawnee, Prairie Village & Overland Park, KS, located in the greater Kansas City area. Our dedicated team is eager to guide you on this transformative journey towards a healthier, pain-free life that you truly deserve. Act now, as relief is just a click away!