Endometriosis: Causes, Symptoms, & Treatment in Los Angeles

Endometriosis is a chronic, inflammatory disease affecting 1 in 10 individuals assigned female at birth. While painful periods and infertility are commonly associated symptoms, there are many other signs and related pain conditions to be aware of. Pelvic pain is experienced by 90% of those with endometriosis, highlighting the important role that pelvic floor physical therapists play in successful treatment. Discover more about this prevalent condition and how it can be effectively managed.

Did You Know?

Our highly trained physical therapists at PHRC have received specialized education in effectively assisting individuals with endometriosis. Jandra Mueller, a member of the PHRC Los Angeles team, was the pioneer in developing a comprehensive course for physical therapists to enhance patient care and support. Recently, Jandra collaborated with iCareBetter, an advocacy group for endometriosis, to create Endometriosis Unplugged, a podcast exclusively focused on this condition.

Did You Know?

Symptoms of Endometriosis

It’s crucial to understand that the severity of symptoms does not always match the extent of the condition. For example, someone with mild endometriosis may experience intense pain, while others with advanced endometriosis may have mild or no symptoms. If you think you may have endometriosis, it’s important to seek medical advice for accurate diagnosis and treatment. Symptoms of endometriosis vary from person to person, but some common signs include:

Severe menstrual pain: Endometriosis can cause intense cramping, abdominal pain, and lower back pain.
Pelvic pain: Experience pain in your pelvic region not just during your period, but also before and after. The intensity can vary from mild to severe, impacting your daily life.
Pain During Sexual Intercourse: It may be a symptom of endometriosis. This condition can cause deep pelvic pain during intercourse.
Pain during urination or bowel movements: Experiencing pain during urination or bowel movements is not uncommon, especially for those on their periods. Seek relief and comfort with our informative guide.
Excessive bleeding: Heavy menstrual bleeding or bleeding between periods should not be ignored. Seek medical attention if you experience these symptoms.

Infertility: Endometriosis can cause adhesions and scar tissue that disrupt the normal function of reproductive organs, making it hard to conceive.
Fatigue: It is a widespread issue affecting many, causing ongoing tiredness and reduced energy levels.
Digestive Issues: There are gastrointestinal symptoms associated with endometriosis, such as bloating, constipation, diarrhea, and nausea, notably during menstrual cycles.
Irritative Bladder Symptoms: This is the common occurrence of urinary urgency, frequency, and pain in individuals with endometriosis, even without an infection.

Chronic Overlapping Pain Syndromes

Vulvodynia – A chronic bladder pain and urgency.
Interstitial Cystitis/Painful Bladder Syndrome – A recurrent abdominal pain and bowel irregularities.
Irritable Bowel Syndrome – The discomfort in the pelvic region caused by muscle dysfunction.
Pelvic Pain/Pelvic Floor Dysfunction – A condition where the tissue lining the uterus grows outside of it.
Endometriosis – A common condition that can cause pelvic pain.

Chronic Overlapping Pain Syndromes

Vulvodynia – A chronic bladder pain and urgency.
Interstitial Cystitis/Painful Bladder Syndrome – A recurrent abdominal pain and bowel irregularities.
Irritable Bowel Syndrome – The discomfort in the pelvic region caused by muscle dysfunction.
Pelvic Pain/Pelvic Floor Dysfunction – A condition where the tissue lining the uterus grows outside of it.
Endometriosis – A common condition that can cause pelvic pain.

Endometriosis Requires a Multidisciplinary Approach

The delay in diagnosing endometriosis often lasts 7-10 years, which worsens chronic pain.

While initial therapies may help alleviate symptoms, they may also lead to other pelvic pain conditions. However, they can still effectively manage symptoms in endometriosis.

Pelvic pain and pelvic floor dysfunction affect around 90% of individuals with endometriosis. Pelvic floor physical therapy can help manage various symptoms associated with this condition.

To achieve the best possible outcome, it is crucial to address all sources of pain. Treating the lesions is just one aspect of meeting the needs of these individuals.

Endometriosis Requires a Multidisciplinary Approach

The delay in diagnosing endometriosis often lasts 7-10 years, which worsens chronic pain.

While initial therapies may help alleviate symptoms, they may also lead to other pelvic pain conditions. However, they can still effectively manage symptoms in endometriosis.

Pelvic pain and pelvic floor dysfunction affect around 90% of individuals with endometriosis. Pelvic floor physical therapy can help manage various symptoms associated with this condition.

To achieve the best possible outcome, it is crucial to address all sources of pain. Treating the lesions is just one aspect of meeting the needs of these individuals.

Surgical vs Non-surgical Options for Endometriosis

Diagnostic and Treatment Challenges

Laparoscopic surgery is the recommended choice for diagnosing endometriosis and treating the lesions with excision surgery. However, it may be difficult to find a specialist to perform this procedure.
It’s important to note that even after the surgery, there could still be other sources of pain that need to be addressed. This is because endometriosis often accompanies other chronic overlapping pain conditions.

Diagnostic and Treatment Challenges

Laparoscopic surgery is the recommended choice for diagnosing endometriosis and treating the lesions with excision surgery. However, it may be difficult to find a specialist to perform this procedure.
It’s important to note that even after the surgery, there could still be other sources of pain that need to be addressed. This is because endometriosis often accompanies other chronic overlapping pain conditions.

Endometriosis Treatment:
How We Can Help You

Experience relief and improved functionality with our personalized pelvic floor physical therapy for endometriosis. Say goodbye to chronic pain and discomfort with our targeted approach to treating the root causes of your symptoms. Our services include:

Endometriosis Treatment:
How We Can Help You

1. Thorough Assessment:

We will carefully examine your symptoms to determine their root causes and create a personalized treatment plan.

2. Hands-on Therapy:

Our skilled therapists will use manual techniques to release tight muscles, reduce inflammation, and improve blood flow to affected areas.

3. Tailored Exercises:

We will guide you through exercises specifically designed for your needs to promote healing and prevent future problems.

4. Empowering Education:

You will gain knowledge and tools to manage your symptoms and maintain progress long after therapy sessions end.

5. Comprehensive Approach:

We consider your history and objective findings to identify and address all sources of pain, including manual therapy, exercises, education, and referrals to other specialists if necessary.

6. Team-Based Care:

We recognize that managing endometriosis requires a team of experts. We can provide resources and appropriate referrals to address the various symptoms and related conditions often associated with endometriosis.

Take Control of Your Pelvic Health Today

Overcome endometriosis with our specialized pelvic floor physical therapy services. Take the first step towards a healthier, happier future. Schedule your initial consultation today and start your journey towards relief, recovery, and renewed confidence.

Take Control of Your Pelvic Health Today