Endometriosis: Causes, Symptoms, & Treatment in Pasadena

Endometriosis, a chronic and diverse inflammatory disease, is influenced by estrogen and affects around 1 in 10 individuals assigned female at birth. While painful periods and infertility are commonly associated with endometriosis, there are also various other symptoms and related pain conditions. The majority of those with endometriosis suffer from pelvic pain, and the involvement of pelvic floor physical therapists is crucial for effective treatment.

Did You Know?

The physical therapists at PHRC have received specialized training to assist individuals with endometriosis. Jandra Mueller from PHRC Pasadena created a comprehensive course for physical therapists to improve patient care outcomes. In collaboration with iCareBetter, an endometriosis advocacy group, Jandra has launched Endometriosis Unplugged, a podcast solely focused on this condition.

Did You Know?

Symptoms of Endometriosis

It’s crucial to understand that the severity of symptoms does not always reflect the severity of the condition. For example, someone with mild endometriosis might experience severe pain, while others with more advanced cases may have mild or no symptoms at all. If you suspect you have endometriosis, it’s vital to consult a healthcare professional for a correct diagnosis and appropriate treatment. While the symptoms of endometriosis can vary from person to person, here are some common signs:

Dysmenorrhea: Experiencing endometriosis can lead to intense cramps, abdominal pain, and lower back pain during periods.
Pelvic pain: Pelvic pain is not limited to your menstruation cycle; it can occur before or after as well. The intensity of the pain can vary from mild discomfort to severe and incapacitating.
Pain during intercourse: It could be endometriosis. This condition could be causing deep pelvic discomfort during or after sexual activity.
Discomfort during urination or bowel movements: Some individuals may feel pain during these bodily functions, especially when they are on their menstrual cycle.
Excessive bleeding: Endometriosis could be the cause of heavy menstrual bleeding (menorrhagia) or bleeding between periods (metrorrhagia).

Infertility: Endometriosis can hinder your chances of getting pregnant. This condition can lead to adhesions and scar tissue, obstructing the proper function of reproductive organs and making conception difficult.
Chronic Fatigue and Low Energy: A common complaint among many individuals is the persistent feeling of tiredness and lack of energy.
Gastrointestinal Problems: Endometriosis can cause symptoms in the digestive system like bloating, constipation, diarrhea, and nausea, especially during menstruation.
Irritative bladder symptoms: Endometriosis can cause bothersome bladder symptoms such as frequent urination, urgent need to urinate, and pain. These symptoms occur even without an infection.

Chronic Overlapping Pain Syndromes

Vulvodynia: Experiencing pain in the vulva region.
Interstitial Cystitis/Painful Bladder Syndrome: Chronic bladder pain and urgency.
Irritable Bowel Syndrome: Recurrent abdominal pain and bowel irregularities.
Pelvic Pain/Pelvic Floor Dysfunction: Discomfort in the pelvic region caused by muscle dysfunction.
Endometriosis: A condition where the tissue lining the uterus grows outside of it.

Chronic Overlapping Pain Syndromes

Vulvodynia: Experiencing pain in the vulva region.
Interstitial Cystitis/Painful Bladder Syndrome: Chronic bladder pain and urgency.
Irritable Bowel Syndrome: Recurrent abdominal pain and bowel irregularities.
Pelvic Pain/Pelvic Floor Dysfunction: Discomfort in the pelvic region caused by muscle dysfunction.
Endometriosis: A condition where the tissue lining the uterus grows outside of it.

Endometriosis Requires a Multidisciplinary Approach

The delay in diagnosing endometriosis is typically around 7-10 years, which can worsen chronic pain over time.

While initial treatments for symptom relief may lead to other pelvic pain conditions, they can still be effective in managing symptoms of endometriosis.

Pelvic pain and pelvic floor dysfunction are experienced by 90% of individuals with endometriosis, and pelvic floor physical therapy can help alleviate many associated symptoms.

To achieve the best possible outcome, it is crucial to address all sources of pain, not just the lesions associated with endometriosis.

Endometriosis Requires a Multidisciplinary Approach

The delay in diagnosing endometriosis is typically around 7-10 years, which can worsen chronic pain over time.

While initial treatments for symptom relief may lead to other pelvic pain conditions, they can still be effective in managing symptoms of endometriosis.

Pelvic pain and pelvic floor dysfunction are experienced by 90% of individuals with endometriosis, and pelvic floor physical therapy can help alleviate many associated symptoms.

To achieve the best possible outcome, it is crucial to address all sources of pain, not just the lesions associated with endometriosis.

Surgical vs Non-surgical Options for Endometriosis

Diagnostic and Treatment Challenges

Laparoscopic surgery is the preferred choice for diagnosing endometriosis and treating lesions. However, it may be difficult to find a specialist to perform this procedure.
It is important to note that even with successful surgery, there may be other sources of pain that need to be addressed, as endometriosis often coexists with other chronic pain conditions. Therefore, it is crucial to consider a comprehensive approach and not solely rely on surgery as a solution.

Diagnostic and Treatment Challenges

Laparoscopic surgery is the preferred choice for diagnosing endometriosis and treating lesions. However, it may be difficult to find a specialist to perform this procedure.
It is important to note that even with successful surgery, there may be other sources of pain that need to be addressed, as endometriosis often coexists with other chronic pain conditions. Therefore, it is crucial to consider a comprehensive approach and not solely rely on surgery as a solution.

Endometriosis Treatment:
How We Can Help You

Suffering from chronic pain, discomfort, and other symptoms? Our specialized pelvic floor physical therapy tackles the root causes of your discomfort, providing relief and enhancing your daily functionality. We offer personalized services to address your needs.

Endometriosis Treatment:
How We Can Help You

1. Thorough Evaluation:

We will carefully assess your symptoms to determine the specific causes and create a personalized treatment plan for you.

2. Hands-on Therapy:

Our experienced therapists use manual techniques to relieve muscle tension, reduce inflammation, and improve blood circulation in affected areas.

3. Targeted Exercises:

We will guide you through exercises designed specifically for your needs, promoting healing and helping to prevent future issues.

4. Empowering Education:

We will give you the knowledge and tools to manage your symptoms and maintain your progress even after therapy sessions end.

5. Comprehensive Assessment and Plan:

Taking into account your medical history and objective findings, we will identify and address all sources of pain to ensure the best outcomes. This may include manual therapy, exercises, education, and referrals to other specialists if needed.

6. Collaborative Care Planning:

We understand that managing endometriosis requires a multidisciplinary approach. We will provide resources and referrals to address the range of symptoms and related conditions often associated with endometriosis.

Take Control of Your Pelvic Health Today

If you’re struggling with endometriosis, we have the solution. Our specialized pelvic floor physical therapy services can help you overcome this condition and improve your well-being. Take charge of your future. Call us today to book your first consultation and start your journey towards relief, recovery, and renewed self-assurance.

Take Control of Your Pelvic Health Today