Medical Approaches for Pelvic Pain

Many of us have a certified medical degree from the University of Google when it comes to researching the pain and symptoms we may be experiencing in our bodies. Although Google and WebMD may be helpful in putting a name to what we are feeling, it is wise to seek professional medical advice in order to determine the cause of the pain and receive appropriate treatment. The correct diagnosis is the first step to healing with a comprehensive treatment plan to follow.

Medication

There are some over-the-counter pain relivers that help with managing pain, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen. For more severe cases, your doctor may prescribe stronger medications to alleviate the discomfort. Remember, pharmaceutical products do play a role towards healing, however they are not the remedy for healing. This is where your personal comprehensive treatment plan, which includes your physical health, medical history, mental and emotional state, factor in.

Physical Therapy

A physical therapist provides stretches, relaxation techniques, and strengthening exercises to improve pelvic floor function and reduce pain. They address underlying causes of discomfort by focusing on the muscles, ligaments, and joints that support the pelvic region and tailbone. Treatment approaches can include pelvic floor rehabilitation, electrical stimulation, biofeedback, laser therapy, or pelvic floor therapy devices. Finding a qualified therapist with experience in this area is key as not all physical therapists have specialized focus on pelvic floor health. If you are searching for answers look up Dr. Venné S. Williams, PT, DPT, CLT at TempleWorks.

Other Treatments

Depending on the cause of pelvic pain, other treatments such as surgery could be the only option. Some common types of pelvic pain surgeries include:

1. Laparoscopy: Used to remove ovarian cysts, fibroids, or endometrial implants, or to return prolapsed organs to their original positions.

2. Sigmoid Colectomy or Sigmoidectomy: Treats diverticulitis, prevents recurrence after multiple episodes of diverticulitis.

3. Reconstructive Pelvic Surgery: Addresses conditions like pelvic organ prolapse and urinary incontinence, utilizing various surgical techniques to restore pelvic health.

4. Urethral Bulking Agents: Used to treat urinary incontinence.

   
   

Pelvic pain can be experienced by both women and men. The approach you take medically, in addition to self-care strategies and lifestyle adjustments, forms your treatment plan addressing all relevant areas that will support you in recovery and overall well-being.