Basics of pelvic pain

Feb 2, 2023
by Dr. Jennifer Goss, PT, DPT, Physical Therapist, Pelvic Floor Specialist

Pelvic pain is often defined differently among healthcare professional specialities in this area; however, more broadly it can be defined as pain in the area below the belly button and between the hips. This pain can be acute (sudden onset) or chronic (lasting greater than 6 months). 

Who experiences pelvic pain?

Pelvic pain commonly affects people who identify as female, but can affect every person no matter age or sex identification. In our clinic, pelvic floor physical therapists commonly meet clients who are experiencing pelvic pain. 

Pelvic pain can have many different causes, we help you figure out what is yours.

Many causes of pelvic pain often exist as a symptom of a diagnosis and these are the most common diagnoses I see in the clinic. However, this does not include all diagnoses I have treated:

  • Vaginismus
  • Vulvodynia or Vestibulodynia
  • Pregnancy or postpartum related pain
  • Endometriosis
  • Interstitial Cystitis
  • Chronic Prostatitis / Chronic Pelvic Pain Syndrome
  • Genitourinary Syndrome in Menopause
  • Pudendal Neuralgia
  • Anal fissures or fistulas
  • Hip Pain
  • Back Pain

How does pelvic pain present itself?

Pelvic pain can be experienced in many different ways, but here is what I commonly see in the clinic:

  • Painful sex
  • Pain with urination or bowel movements
  • Dull or pressure discomfort above the pubic bone or deep in the pelvis
  • Pain in the pelvis or genitals causing issues with sitting, standing or wearing certain types of clothing
  • Pain felt in the pelvis that may or may not radiate to inner legs, glutes, low back and even to the feet

 

Rose Physical Therapy Group is here to help!

You may have been given one of the diagnoses above from a provider. I would recommend seeking out a pelvic floor physical therapist  to check in on how your pelvic floor muscles are functioning as well as other areas of your body as these diagnoses often have a skeletal muscle component. If you aren’t happy with simply being prescribed medication for the pain or other treatments have not brought you relief, then give us a call or email our front staff to make an appointment at either our Downtown or Navy Yard clinic here in Washington DC for an evaluation.