PELVIC PAIN FAQS
What causes Chronic Pelvic Pain Syndrome (CPPS)?
The exact cause of Chronic Pelvic Pain is not always clear. It can be caused by direct injury to the pelvis or coccyx, or secondarily, by disorders of the bladder,gynecological system, or gastrointestinal complaints. Often patients with pelvic floor dysfunction may have no pain, but only have complaints of urinary frequency, or chronic constipation.
What is the best form of treatment? Is there a permanent cure?
The treatment of Chronic Pelvic Pain Syndrome often involves multiple providers working together to ensure a successful outcome. We collaborate with the best specialists in the world including pelvic floor physical therapists, OB/GYNs, orthopedic surgeons, general surgeons, urologists, and urogynecologists. Our clinically proven treatments are effective in alleviating the underlying causes of pelvic pain and resolving muscular dysfunction.
Can Chronic Pelvic Pain miraculously disappear?
It’s unlikely that Chronic Pelvic Pain will go away on its own. Many treatments which are helpful, like physical therapy, acupuncture, yoga, or surgery may not be enough on their own to resolve the pelvic floor dysfunction. We strive to ensure that all aspects that are contributing to your chronic pain are addressed in order to achieve excellent results.
Is Chronic Pelvic Pain a form of anxiety?
Chronic Pelvic Pain is not a form of anxiety. However, it can be worsened by chronic stress and anxiety. Chronic pain can affect daily living and patients may develop anxiety secondarily to the chronic pain.
I have had pain for a long time, is there a chance for recovery?
We treat patients regardless of the duration of pain. Patients who have been in pain longer, may require additional courses of treatment, but a better quality of life can still be achieved.
Why do doctors ignore Pelvic Pain?
Many physicians are not trained in pelvic pain during medical school or residency. There are still myths in both the medical and non-medical communities regarding pelvic pain. Treating pelvic pain is a specialty and requires a collaborative effort among different medical providers. We hope to remedy this by continuing to educate both the medical and non-medical communities. Greater community awareness will allow better access to pelvic care.
GENERAL FAQS
What is Pelvic Pain Rehabilitation Medicine?
Pelvic Rehabilitation medicine is a team of MDs who specialize in Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation. We strive to optimize function by reducing the chronic muscle tightness in the pelvis, allowing proper blood flow and nerve function to resume.
Why was Pelvic Rehabilitation Medicine started?
We are hoping to raise awareness of the incapacity that can arise from pelvic floor dysfunction and to make it easier for patients to find the help that they need.
Does Pelvic Rehabilitation Medicine treat men too?
About 50% of our patients are men. Often times men have a harder time finding specialists who understand the causes behind their pelvic pain symptoms. Pelvic dysfunction is common in former athletes, cyclists, as well as in people with high stress jobs. Men will see multiple doctors and providers before finding a diagnosis for their condition.
I do not live in New York. Can Pelvic Rehabilitation Medicine still help me?
We see patients from around the country and around the world at Pelvic Rehabilitation Medicine. Because the work we do is hands-on and requires a full examination, we recommend you choose one of our many locations or so travel to NYC to see us in person.
What differentiates Pelvic Rehabilitation Medicine from other doctors or physical therapists?
At our clinic, we only treat pelvic conditions. We specialize in pain and dysfunction of pelvis primarily from a musculoskeletal perspective. We work closely with top specialists who treat pelvic pain conditions and can refer you to them if we suspect an underlying condition.
What types of problems do you see at Pelvic Rehabilitation Medicine?
Dyspareunia
Hip Pain
SacroiIiac Joint Pain
Buttock Pain
Vaginismus
Groin Pain
Vulvodynia
Pelvic Floor Hypertonia
Pudendal Neuralgia
Chronic Constipation
Urinary Urgency or Frequency
Persistent Genital Arousal Disorder (PGAD)
Endometriosis Pain
And any other pelvic pain or dysfunction
Do I really need professional help, or can I work this out on my own?
Typically pelvic pain that has gone on for more than 3 months, and has not resolved with rest and over the counter medications, will not improve on its own.
What happens at the first appointment?
The first appointment will take approximately 60 minutes. You will meet the doctor and share your history. You should also bring all imaging reports, and reports from any pelvic or hernia surgeries. We will also perform a thorough examination. Our examination includes analysis of body mechanics, low back, SI joint, and hips, as well as an internal examination of the pelvic floor musculature.
What treatment methods are performed at Pelvic Rehabilitation Medicine?
The physicians at Pelvic Rehabilitation Medicine use a multi-modal approach to tackle the multiple facets of chronic pain. Treatment may include medications, topical creams, injections (trigger points and Peripheral Nerve Blocks), meditation and yoga, nutritional modifications, and referrals to various specialists. We will ensure all underlying medical conditions are addressed and treated.
Why a series of injections?
Trigger point and peripheral nerve block injections work best in a series, as it can take multiple injections to reset the length tension curve of the muscle and retrain it to remain in the lengthened state. There is a positive accumulative effect with each treatment. Due to the size of the pelvic floor, and the large number of branches off of the pudendal nerve, the best chance for pain relief is completing a series of nerve blocks so that all of the branches off the nerve can be treated.
How long does treatment usually take?
The treatment series is one visit a week for six weeks, with physical therapy occurring concurrently. If your treatment requires medication management that may last up to six months. Medication management is not a long-term plan.
What’s your success rate?
Our success rate is high! 90% of the patients who see us have significant improvement in their pain and bowel and bladder symptoms. As pain is sometimes subjective, we also measure quality of life surveys before and after treatment to evaluate how our patients’ function improves. Take a moment to view patient testimonials on our website. They are very powerful.
Is treatment covered by insurance?
Pelvic Rehabilitation Medicine accepts all major insurance carriers, and their out of network benefits. You may contact the office and we can assist you in determining your out of network benefits.
