Understanding Pelvic Pain and How Physical Therapy Can Help

Understanding Pelvic Pain and How Physical Therapy Can Help

Pelvic pain can affect anyone — and it’s more common than most people realize. Whether it’s a dull ache, sharp discomfort, or pressure in the lower abdomen or pelvic area, pelvic pain can interfere with your daily life, relationships, exercise, and overall well-being.

At Pulse Physical Therapy in Hinsdale, we specialize in treating pelvic pain and pelvic floor dysfunction through gentle, personalized care that addresses the root cause—not just the symptoms.

What Is Pelvic Pain?

 

Pelvic pain refers to pain or discomfort felt anywhere in the lower abdomen, hips, groin, or pelvic floor. It may come and go or be constant. Some people describe it as pressure, heaviness, or tightness in the pelvic region.

Pelvic pain can stem from many different causes, including:

  • Pelvic floor muscle tension or weakness
  • Childbirth or postpartum changes
  • Endometriosis or painful periods
  • Bladder pain or urinary urgency (interstitial cystitis)
  • Tailbone pain (coccydynia) 
  • Pain during intercourse (dyspareunia)
  • Scar tissue after surgery or C-section
  • Low back, hip, or SI joint dysfunction

Because these areas are all connected, it often takes a whole-body approach to identify the real source of the pain.

How Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy Helps

Pelvic floor physical therapy is one of the most effective, evidence-based treatments for chronic pelvic pain. The pelvic floor is a group of muscles, ligaments, orthopedic rehab associates and connective tissues that support your bladder, uterus, and bowel. When these muscles become too tight, weak, or uncoordinated, pain and other symptoms can develop.

Your physical therapist will design a customized program to restore strength, flexibility, and balance to the pelvic region. Treatment may include:

1. Gentle Manual Therapy

Hands-on techniques to release tight muscles, reduce scar tissue restrictions, and improve blood flow.

2. Relaxation and Breathing Training

Learning how to relax your pelvic floor muscles and diaphragm can significantly decrease pain and tension.

3. Strengthening and Coordination Exercises

Targeted exercises help you regain control of your pelvic floor and core muscles, improving stability and posture.

4. Posture and Movement Training

Since pelvic pain often relates to body mechanics, your therapist may address hip and spine alignment to reduce strain.

5. Education and Lifestyle Guidance

You’ll learn strategies for pain management, bladder and bowel habits, sexual health comfort, and stress reduction.

Common Conditions We Treat

At Pulse Physical Therapy, we treat a wide range of pelvic health conditions, including:

  • Pelvic floor pt muscle tightness or weakness
  • Painful intercourse
  • Postpartum pelvic pain
  • Endometriosis-related pain
  • Bladder or bowel dysfunction
  • Tailbone pain
  • Abdominal or scar pain after surgery

We work closely with you and your healthcare provider to create a coordinated care plan focused on long-term relief.

What to Expect During Treatment

Your first visit includes a comprehensive evaluation of your posture, movement, core strength, sports physical therapy, and pelvic floor function. We’ll discuss your symptoms, medical history, and goals in a safe, private, and supportive environment.

From there, we’ll build a personalized treatment plan that fits your comfort level and progresses at your own pace. Our goal is to help you move comfortably, regain confidence, and feel like yourself again.

You Don’t Have to Live With Pelvic Pain

Pelvic pain is common—but it’s not normal, and it’s treatable. With the right therapy and support, you can heal, move freely, and reclaim your quality of life.

At Pulse Physical Therapy in Hinsdale, our pelvic health specialists provide compassionate, one-on-one care for women and men experiencing pelvic pain. Whether your pain started after childbirth, surgery, or gradually over time, we’ll help you get to the root cause and guide you toward lasting relief.

Ready to take the first step?

Schedule your pelvic floor physical therapy evaluation today at Pulse Physical Therapy, your trusted clinic for pelvic pain and women’s health physical therapy in Hinsdale.

info@pulsephysicaltherapyclinic.com or call us at (630)492-1137.

Schedule An Appointment Now