Musculoskeletal Issues That Are Causing Your Pelvic Pain

Oct 31

Pain in the lowest part of your abdomen is known as pelvic pain, and it’s a problem for many women. The numbers vary, but about 15% of US women of childbearing age experience pelvic pain for more than six months; worldwide, as many as 32% of women deal with such pain.

Pelvic pain can be a condition by itself or the symptom of other problems. Among the many causes of pelvic pain are endometriosis, fibroids, pelvic inflammatory disease, and musculoskeletal issues.

Musculoskeletal problems occur in the connective tissue, bones, and joints. They’re concerning because they can create a variety of conditions of their own.

Experienced urogynecologist Dr. Neeraj Kohli and the team at Boston Urogyn in Wellesley and South Weymouth, Massachusetts, can help patients experiencing many kinds of pelvic pain.

What is the musculoskeletal system?

This part of the body is the closest to the bone and consists of cartilage, ligaments, skeletal muscles, and tissue. It connects bones to joints, muscles, and other parts of the body.

The musculoskeletal system provides stability and support for many basic functions like walking, sitting, and standing. Without the musculoskeletal system, the body couldn’t hold posture, move properly, hold soft tissues and organs, or maintain body temperature.

What pelvic problems can musculoskeletal issues cause?

The supporting muscles of the pelvis are called the pelvic floor, and they support the bladder, rectum, and uterus (or prostate in men). Musculoskeletal problems in this area that can lead to pelvic pain include:

Inflammation of the pelvic floor
Pelvic floor muscle tension
Fibromyalgia
Pubic symphysis (pubic joint inflammation)
Hernia

Any of these issues can lead to chronic pelvic pain. If you’re experiencing pelvic pain, Dr. Kohli can help determine whether it’s a musculoskeletal issue or some other condition that’s causing your pain. He can then develop a treatment plan to address your pain.

How is pelvic pain treated?

Pelvic pain can be treated in a variety of ways, including:

Physical therapy
Hormone treatments
Pain relievers (over-the-counter or prescription)
Antibiotics (if infection is present)
Kegel exercises
Trigger point injections
Relaxation therapies
Surgery

In addition, Dr. Kohli may recommend Botox® injections to temporarily paralyze pelvic floor muscles and alleviate your pain. Antidepressants can also help with chronic pelvic pain, even if you’re not clinically depressed.

Regardless of what’s causing your pelvic pain, treatment options are available. Call one of our convenient Boston area locations, or use our online booking tool to make your appointment with Dr. Kohli and find relief from your pelvic pain today.