Pelvic Pain

What is pelvic pain?

Pelvic pain is a feeling of discomfort in your lower back, hips, or abdominal area. It might result from:

• Complex regional pain syndrome
• Dorsal root ganglion problems
• Sacroiliac joint inflammation
• Spinal cord injuries
• Gastrointestinal problems
• Women’s health issues
• Musculoskeletal injuries
• Post-menopausal pain
• Neuropathy

You might experience aching pain, sharp pain, throbbing, tingling, or burning in some instances. If you experience severe pelvic pain or long-lasting discomfort that doesn’t subside on its own, see the SamWell Institute for Pain Management team for an evaluation. 

What happens during a pain management consultation?

When you arrive at SamWell Institute for Pain Management for a consultation, Dr. Shah and his team ask about your symptoms and review your medical history. They complete a physical examination and might recommend blood tests, nerve conduction tests, X-rays, MRIs, CT scans, or other imaging procedures to diagnose the cause of pelvic pain.

What are my pelvic pain treatment options?

If you experience chronic or severe pelvic pain, Dr. Shah and his team may recommend the following treatments:

Spinal cord stimulation

A spinal cord stimulator is a pacemaker-like device implanted beneath the skin near your spinal cord. It sends electrical impulses to spinal cord tissues to alleviate discomfort.

Dorsal root ganglion stimulation

Dorsal root ganglion stimulation is similar to spinal cord stimulation. Dr. Shah places electrodes near your dorsal root ganglion — a cluster of nerve cells — to deliver electrical impulses to targeted tissues and achieve pelvic pain relief.

Medications

Taking certain medications can reduce pelvic pain, offer long-lasting relief, and offer a better quality of life.

Nerve blocks 

Nerve blocks are injections that help counter nerve impulses associated with pain. Dr. Shah first numbs the treatment area to avoid any discomfort.

Radiofrequency ablation

Applying radio waves to painful areas can interrupt nerve conduction and alleviate pain naturally, without needles or incisions.

Physical therapy

Completing physical therapy exercises can strengthen injured or diseased tissues and reduce chronic pelvic pain. Dr. Shah might recommend you complete physical therapy along with other pelvic pain treatments.

Don’t live with chronic or severe pelvic pain associated with nerve or spinal cord problems when simple pain management solutions are available at SamWell Institute for Pain Management. Schedule an appointment by phone or book online today.