What causes pelvic pain?

Pelvic pain can include discomfort in the vicinity of the bladder, penis, testicles, perineum, anus or around your sacrum or coccyx. It can also include tingling, numbness or burning sensations in these areas.

You may also experience symptoms relating to:

• Bowel issues: including rectal or anal pain, a sense of incomplete emptying, pain with opening bowels, or inability to pass wind.
• Bladder issues: bladder pain, the need to go to the toilet frequently, reduced urine flow, or incomplete emptying
• Sexual dysfunction

The causes of these symptoms can be complex and varied. A thorough assessment is necessary before any treatment can be carried out.

Common causes of pelvic pain can include:

• inflammation of the prostate (prostatitis)
• irritation of the pudendal nerve or even abdominal nerves,
• referred pain from lower back conditions
• sacroiliac joint dysfunction
• hernias (which can compress certain nerves)
• visceral pain (this is referred pain from one of your internal organs eg kidneys).
• It is also common to experience pelvic or back pain following vasectomy or other abdominal or pelvic surgery

How can physiotherapy relieve pelvic pain?

Physiotherapy has emerged as a valuable treatment approach for male pelvic pain. Physiotherapy for male pelvic pain typically involves a comprehensive assessment to identify specific muscle imbalances and triggers contributing to symptoms.

Our specialised physiotherapists trained in pelvic floor rehabilitation can assess and address muscular imbalances, tension, and dysfunction within the pelvic floor muscles. These muscles play a crucial role in supporting pelvic organs, controlling bladder and bowel function, and contributing to sexual health. Dysfunctional pelvic floor muscles, whether overly tight or weak, can contribute to or exacerbate pelvic pain syndromes.

Treatment may include manual therapy techniques to release tight muscles, exercises to relax or strengthen the pelvic floor, and biofeedback to improve awareness and control of these muscles. By addressing underlying muscular issues and promoting pelvic floor health, physiotherapy aims to reduce pain, improve function, and enhance overall well-being for men experiencing pelvic pain syndromes. Lifestyle modifications may also be implemented to further manage symptoms and prevent recurrence.