Endometriosis: Causes, Symptoms, & Treatment in Walnut Creek

Endometriosis, a chronic inflammatory disorder affecting 1 in 10 people assigned female at birth, is a challenging condition marked by severe menstrual pain, potential infertility, and other symptoms. This disease also presents several other symptoms and co-existing pain conditions. Pelvic floor physical therapists have an indispensable role in this scenario as they provide essential treatment solutions for those battling this illness.

Did You Know?

The physical therapists at PHRC have received extensive continuing education to effectively assist individuals with endometriosis. Jandra Mueller, from PHRC Walnut Creek, created the initial course for physical therapists to enhance patients’ ability to manage their care successfully. Jandra has now partnered with an endometriosis advocacy group called iCareBetter to launch Endometriosis Unplugged, a podcast solely dedicated to the topic.

Did You Know?

Symptoms of Endometriosis

The severity of symptoms does not always match the extent of the condition in endometriosis. Some people with mild endometriosis may experience severe pain, while others with advanced endometriosis may have only mild symptoms or none at all. If you think you might have endometriosis, it is important to seek medical advice for accurate diagnosis and treatment. Symptoms of endometriosis vary from person to person, but there are some common signs:

Severe menstrual pain: Endometriosis can cause intense cramps, abdominal pain, and lower back pain during periods.
Pelvic pain: Experience pain in your pelvic region not only during your period but also before or after. The intensity of the pain can vary from mild to severe and disabling.
Pain during intercourse: It could be dyspareunia caused by endometriosis. This condition can lead to deep pelvic pain during or after sexual intercourse.
Discomfort while using the bathroom: It is common for some individuals to feel pain during urination or bowel movements, especially during menstruation.
Excessive bleeding: Endometriosis can cause excessive bleeding such as heavy menstrual bleeding (menorrhagia) or bleeding between periods (metrorrhagia).

Infertility: Endometriosis is a major cause of infertility, as it leads to the formation of adhesions and scar tissue that can interfere with the normal function of reproductive organs.
Fatigue: Endometriosis frequently results in ongoing fatigue and decreased energy levels for individuals.
Digestive Problems: Endometriosis can trigger gastrointestinal discomfort like bloating, constipation, diarrhea, and nausea, especially during periods.
Irritative Bladder Symptoms: If you have endometriosis, you may experience frequent urges to urinate, accompanied by pain, even when there is no infection.

Common Chronic Overlapping Pain Syndromes

Vulvodynia – pain in the vulva region
Interstitial Cystitis/Painful Bladder Syndrome – discomfort in the bladder
Irritable Bowel Syndrome – abdominal pain and abnormal bowel movements
Pelvic Pain/Pelvic Floor Dysfunction – pain in the pelvic region and muscle issues
Endometriosis – chronic pain related to the uterus and surrounding areas

Chronic Overlapping Pain Syndromes

Vulvodynia – pain in the vulva region
Interstitial Cystitis/Painful Bladder Syndrome – discomfort in the bladder
Irritable Bowel Syndrome – abdominal pain and abnormal bowel movements
Pelvic Pain/Pelvic Floor Dysfunction – pain in the pelvic region and muscle issues
Endometriosis – chronic pain related to the uterus and surrounding areas

Endometriosis Requires a Multidisciplinary Approach

The average time to diagnose endometriosis is 7-10 years, leading to prolonged chronic pain.

Initial treatments for symptom relief may worsen other pelvic pain conditions, but can still help manage endometriosis symptoms.

Pelvic pain and pelvic floor dysfunction affect 90% of individuals with endometriosis, and pelvic floor physical therapy can help alleviate various associated symptoms.

To achieve the best results, it is crucial to address all sources of pain, as focusing solely on the lesions is not enough to meet the needs of these individuals.

Endometriosis Requires a Multidisciplinary Approach

The average time to diagnose endometriosis is 7-10 years, leading to prolonged chronic pain.

Initial treatments for symptom relief may worsen other pelvic pain conditions, but can still help manage endometriosis symptoms.

Pelvic pain and pelvic floor dysfunction affect 90% of individuals with endometriosis, and pelvic floor physical therapy can help alleviate various associated symptoms.

To achieve the best results, it is crucial to address all sources of pain, as focusing solely on the lesions is not enough to meet the needs of these individuals.

Surgical vs Non-surgical Options for Endometriosis

Diagnostic and Treatment Challenges

Laparoscopic surgery excels in both diagnosing and treating endometriosis. But locating a capable specialist for this procedure can pose a challenge.
Furthermore, post-surgery, other sources of pain may still require attention due to the resemblances shared among various chronic pain conditions.

Diagnostic and Treatment Challenges

Laparoscopic surgery excels in both diagnosing and treating endometriosis. But locating a capable specialist for this procedure can pose a challenge.
Furthermore, post-surgery, other sources of pain may still require attention due to the resemblances shared among various chronic pain conditions.

Endometriosis Treatment:
How We Can Help You

Are you struggling with chronic pain, discomfort, and other symptoms from endometriosis? Our personalized pelvic floor physical therapy can help. We focus on addressing the underlying causes of your discomfort to provide relief and improve your daily life. Our services include:

Endometriosis Treatment:
How We Can Help You

1. Comprehensive Evaluation:

Our team will conduct a thorough assessment to identify the specific factors contributing to your symptoms and create a personalized treatment plan just for you.

2. Manual Therapy:

Our skilled therapists use hands-on techniques to relieve muscle tightness, reduce inflammation, and enhance blood flow to the affected areas.

3. Therapeutic Exercise:

We will guide you through specific exercises that are tailored to your needs, promoting healing and preventing future issues.

4. Patient Education:

We will empower you with knowledge and tools to effectively manage your symptoms and continue making progress even after your therapy sessions have ended.

5. Assessment and Plan:

Based on your history and objective findings, we work to identify and address all the sources of your pain, utilizing techniques such as manual therapy, exercises, education, and referrals to other specialists as needed.

6. Multidisciplinary Care Planning:

We understand that managing endometriosis involves a team of professionals. We can provide resources and appropriate referrals to address the various symptoms and overlapping conditions often associated with endometriosis.

Take Charge of Your Pelical Health Today

Endometriosis shouldn’t limit your life anymore. Experience the advantages of our tailored pelvic floor physical therapy services and embark on a path to a better and more joyful future. Reach out to us today to arrange your first consultation and start your journey towards relief, recovery, and renewed self-assurance.

Take Charge of Your Pelical Health Today