Pelvic Pain & Dysfunction

What is Pelvic Pain and Dysfunction?

Pelvic pain refers to any discomfort relating to the pelvic region. There are numerous muscles, tendons, ligaments, nerves, organs, joints, and connective tissue in the pelvic region. Often with pelvic pain the muscles of the pelvic floor are overlooked. Tension or trigger points in the hip and/or low back muscles, restrictions in the fascia, altered signals in the nervous system, disease or dysfunction in the organs, and changes in joint mobility can all be a source of pelvic pain.

Pelvic pain can also result from tailbone injuries, low back injuries, hip injuries/replacements, groin strains, hernia repairs, abdominal surgeries, vasectomy and pelvic fractures.

Other Causes Specific to the Pelvic Floor and Prostate Include:

interstitial cystitis (painful bladder syndrome)
proctalgia fugax (levator ani spasm)
irritable bowel syndrome
persistent genital arousal disorder
benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH-non-malignant enlargement of the prostate gland)
bacterial prostatitis (prostate infection)
chronic nonbacterial prostatitis
prostatodynia (prostate pain)

What are the Signs and Symptoms?

Penile, scrotal, perineal, or anal pain

Post-ejaculatory pain

Erectile dysfunction

Tailbone pain (coccydynia)

Pelvic pain that interferes with sitting and exercise

Urinary urgency

Urinary frequency

Urinary hesitancy

Decreased force of urinary stream

Painful bowel movements with incomplete evacuation

Constipation

Groin pain

Sacroiliac joint pain and dysfunction

Low back and hip pain and dysfunction

Lower abdominal pain and tightness

How Can Donna Sarna Physiotherapy Help?

At Donna Sarna Physiotherapy & Rehabilitation, a pelvic floor assessment is a two-part process. The first appointment will include a detailed history and an external evaluation. The physiotherapist will examine posture, movement, and the muscles, fascia, and nerves, focusing on the low back, hips, pelvis, and abdomen. The second appointment will include an internal examination, which includes evaluation of the skin and connective tissue of the genitals. The pelvic floor muscles are tested for muscle tone or tightness, strength, endurance, trigger points, and tissue integrity. The internal examination is performed through the anus. You are always welcome to have a trusted individual present during examination or treatment.

An individualized treatment plan is developed based on assessment findings and may include education regarding posture, diet, exercise, scar mobilization, manual therapy, myofascial release, visceral manipulation, and pelvic floor exercise.