Pelvic Pain

People who experience pelvic pain often go from one physician to another in search of relief. The most common pain complaints may include:

• Acute and chronic low back pain
• Radiating pain in the legs
• Recurrent buttock pain
• Inability to sit without pain
• Pain during or after intercourse
• Irregular bowel movements
• Vaginal itching and burning

Causes

Some medical conditions can be the source of pelvic pain such as:

• Chronic sacroiliac dysfunction (malalignment or shifting of pelvic bones in back)
• Pubic symphysis separation (malalignment or shifting of pelvic bones in front)
• Pelvic adhesions
• Endometriosis
• Interstitial cystitis (chronic inflammation of the bladder wall believed not to be caused by bacteria)
• Vestibulitis (chronic inflammation and pain at the vestibule of the vagina)
• Vulvodynia (chronic inflammation and pain in the vulvar region, usually with complaints of burning, stinging, irritation and rawness)
• Adhered episiotomy scar
• Recurrent yeast infections

Treatment Options

The most common treatment options when surgery is not a consideration may include:

• Nerve blocks and medications from an anesthesiologist
• Physical therapy which might include special exercises, biofeedback and education
• Pain management counseling, stress management or relaxation training

If a patient experiences any of the above complaints and if surgery is not recommended or is considered a "last resort," a physician may refer a patient to the Pain Control Center for a team consultation. The multidisciplinary team will conduct a thorough evaluation of a patient's condition and develop a treatment plan to help reduce or eliminate pain. If a physician is only requesting physical therapy, a referral may be made directly to Outpatient Therapy Services at 574-647-7312.