Understanding Pelvic Pain

Pelvic pain can be difficult to diagnose and treat. That’s because it can stem from many different underlying causes, ranging from menstrual cramps to digestive conditions. For men and women alike, it can significantly impact daily life.

At Spinal Diagnostics, our team of highly trained pain management experts has years of experience diagnosing and treating the underlying causes of pelvic pain. We understand the complexity of this condition and work with you to identify the best path forward.

Here, we explore some common causes of pelvic pain and how we can help.

What causes pelvic pain?

Pelvic pain refers to any discomfort felt in the lower abdomen or pelvic region, which lies between your belly button and your hips. It can be dull or sharp, constant or intermittent, and may feel like pressure, cramping, or even stabbing sensations.

There are numerous potential causes of pelvic pain, including:

• Urinary tract infections (UTIs)
• Kidney stones
• Digestive issues like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
• Hernias
• Musculoskeletal problems like nerve entrapment or pelvic floor dysfunction
• Reproductive issues, including endometriosis, fibroids, or ovarian cysts
• Prostatitis in men

In some cases, pelvic pain may be linked to a combination of factors, which is why an expert evaluation is essential.

How is pelvic pain diagnosed?

Diagnosing pelvic pain often involves a comprehensive review of your symptoms, medical history, and a physical exam. Depending on your specific case, we may recommend diagnostic tools such as:

• Imaging tests (ultrasound, CT scan, or MRI)
• Lab tests to check for infections or inflammation
• Nerve blocks or injections to isolate the source of pain

Our goal is to pinpoint the root cause of your pain so we can create a treatment plan tailored to your unique needs.

What treatments are available for pelvic pain?

Once we understand what’s causing your pelvic pain, we’ll recommend the most appropriate course of treatment. Depending on your diagnosis, your plan may include:

• Medications to address inflammation or nerve pain
• Physical therapy to strengthen pelvic muscles and improve mobility
• Injections, such as nerve blocks or trigger point injections
• Minimally invasive procedures targeting affected nerves
• Collaboration with specialists in urology, gynecology, or gastroenterology if needed

Pelvic pain can be complex, but you don’t have to navigate it alone. At Spinal Diagnostics, we’re committed to identifying the source of your discomfort and helping you find long-term relief.

If you’re living with unexplained pelvic pain, contact our team in Tualatin or Newberg, Oregon, to schedule a consultation.