How Pelvic Physical Therapy Eases Endometriosis Symptoms: A Comprehensive Guide
We get this question a lot: "How can pelvic physical therapy help with endometriosis?" It’s understandable to wonder, especially since endometriosis is a medical condition. But the truth is, pelvic PT can significantly change your pain levels and improve your daily function. Let’s dive into how this works.
Understanding Endometriosis
Endometriosis is a condition where tissue similar to the lining of the uterus grows outside of the uterus. These lesions are often found in the abdominal cavity, between and on various organs, but they can also spread to areas like the diaphragm and spine. Common symptoms of endometriosis include painful periods, pain during sex, and infertility. However, symptoms can vary widely. Some women experience pain throughout their entire cycle, while others may have no pain but discover they have endometriosis during fertility testing.
Treatment for endometriosis typically involves a combination of surgery, medication, dietary changes, and yes—physical therapy.
How Pelvic PT Can Help
While pelvic PT cannot remove endometriosis lesions, it can dramatically reduce the symptoms associated with the condition. Over 80% of women with endometriosis also experience pelvic floor muscle tension. This is because pain often causes our muscles to tighten and guard against further discomfort. When endometriosis affects the pelvis and abdomen, this guarding frequently occurs in the pelvic floor muscles.
When I treat a patient with endometriosis, my approach includes several key components:
Posture Analysis: We assess your posture to identify any imbalances that might contribute to pain.
Breathing Education: Proper breathing techniques can help reduce muscle tension and improve relaxation.
Manual Therapy: Internal and external manual therapy helps decrease muscle tension and improve mobility.
Lifestyle Education: We discuss daily habits that can help reduce pain and improve your overall quality of life.
Bowel Health Guidance: Since bowel dysfunction is common with endometriosis, we provide education on maintaining healthy bowel function.
Home Stretching Program: We guide you through a personalized stretching and strengthening program to improve flexibility and reduce pain.
Self-Manual Therapy: I also teach patients how to perform their own manual stretching at home, empowering them to manage their symptoms between sessions.
Want to Learn More?
If you’re looking for more information, check out our online courses: Empowering You with Endometriosis Levels 1 and 2.
Level 1 is designed for women who are in significant pain and are just starting to incorporate movement and stretching into their routine.
Level 2 is more advanced and includes slightly more challenging activities.
Both courses offer in-depth information on endometriosis, nutrition strategies, mindfulness techniques, self-massage, stretching, strengthening exercises, and more!
-Dr. Heather Evans, pelvic floor physical therapist in Kansas City (Lees Summit, Missouri)