Chronic Pelvic Pain
Living with chronic pelvic pain can be challenging, but you don't have to endure it by yourself. The experienced team at the LBPC is here to provide the care and treatment you need. Contact us today to take the first step towards managing your pain and enhancing your quality of life.
1
What is Chronic Pelvic Pain?
This condition refers to persistent pain in the lower abdomen or pelvis that lasts for six months or longer. Chronic pelvic pain can significantly impact daily activities and quality of life, and it can be a symptom of various underlying conditions.
You may or may not have received a specific diagnosis such as pudendal neuralgia, endometriosis, overactive bladder, or vulvodynia from a specialist.
2
What Causes Chronic Pelvic Pain?
Several factors can contribute to chronic pelvic pain. Here are some common causes:
Gynaecological Issues: Conditions such as endometriosis, pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), ovarian cysts, uterine fibroids, and adenomyosis can cause CPP.
Urological Issues: Chronic urinary tract infections and interstitial cystitis can lead to persistent pelvic pain.
Gastrointestinal Issues: Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), and chronic constipation can result in pelvic discomfort.
Musculoskeletal Issues: Pelvic floor muscle spasms and myofascial pain syndromes are common musculoskeletal contributors. Nerves, fascia, muscles, and joints can cause dysfunction in the lower back, abdomen, or rib cage area, leading to pelvic pain.
Neurological Issues: Nerve entrapment syndromes and pudendal neuralgia can cause chronic pain in the pelvic region.
Other Factors: Stress, hydration, and daily activities also play a part in chronic pelvic pain.
3
How do you experience Chronic Pelvic Pain?
Chronic pelvic pain can present itself in various ways. You might experience continuous or intermittent pain in the pelvic region, which can range from aching and sharp to cramping sensations. The pain may be localised or radiate to other areas such as the lower back, hips, or thighs. You might also experience pain during intercourse, urination, or bowel movements, as well as associated symptoms like fatigue and depression due to the chronic nature of the pain. These symptoms can vary in severity and duration, significantly affecting your ability to perform daily tasks and enjoy life.
4
How can we help?
At the LBPC we can help manage and alleviate your chronic pelvic pain through a personalised treatment plan. Here’s how we can work together:
Assessment and Diagnosis: We will conduct a thorough assessment to understand the specific areas of pain and identify any underlying causes. This might involve physical examinations and reviewing your medical history.
Manual Therapy: Techniques such as soft tissue massage, trigger point therapy, and pelvic floor muscle relaxation can help reduce pain and improve mobility.
Exercise Therapy: We can guide you through targeted exercises to strengthen the pelvic floor, core, and lower back muscles, improve flexibility, and enhance overall function.
Pain Relief Techniques: Methods such as heat therapy, cold packs, and gentle stretching can help reduce pain and inflammation.
Posture and Movement Guidance: Teaching you proper posture and movement techniques to reduce strain on the pelvic region.
Education and Advice: Providing tips on how to prevent chronic pelvic pain, including ergonomic advice, lifestyle modifications, and relaxation techniques.
Supportive Devices: If necessary, recommending supportive devices such as pelvic supports or cushions to provide additional comfort and stability.
By working together, we can develop a comprehensive plan to manage your chronic pelvic pain effectively, improve your mobility, and enhance your quality of life. Don't hesitate to reach out if you have any questions or need further assistance!
