Those living with endometriosis know that since this condition is chronic and has so many potential symptoms, it affects every aspect of life. The experience of endometriosis is different from patient to patient, but consistent low-level discomfort, bouts of severe pain, and reduced mobility are all common issues. Physicians recommend different medical treatments, including surgery, based on the amount of endometrium overgrowth, the patient’s age, and other factors. But almost all people who have endometriosis can benefit greatly from physical therapy. Various PT methods play an important role in managing symptoms by reducing pain and restoring movement, as well as in improving overall quality of life.
At JAG Physical Therapy, the leading name in PT across New Jersey, New York, and Pennsylvania, we have helped countless patients overcome the worst of their endometriosis symptoms and sometimes even avoid the need for more invasive treatments. Our empathetic and skilled therapists use the latest specialized modalities to target your unique health situation and help you find fast, lasting relief. Book an appointment now to get started or read below to learn more about how physical therapy tackles endometriosis.
What Is Endometriosis and How Does It Affect Daily Life?
Endometrium is an important type of reproductive tissue normally found within the uterus. Its normal function is to keep the uterine walls open and provide an ideal, blood vessel-rich environment for an embryo to grow in. However, endometrium-like tissue can occasionally also arise in other places in the body, usually around the ovaries and fallopian tubes but in other regions as well. This is what is referred to as endometriosis. When the body detects tissue in an abnormal place, it responds with inflammation, which is a primary cause of endometriosis pain. And since this type of tissue tends to grow blood vessels and nerve endings, the problem is exacerbated.
Endometriosis pain tends to be concentrated in the pelvic area, and it is usually at its worst during menstruation. Muscle tension and fatigue are also common, and since excess endometrial tissue can lead to fibrous connective tissue forming, it can even limit range of motion. All of these symptoms lead to missed days at work or class, missing out on recreation, and an inability to exercise, which can worsen the patient’s physical and psychological state.
How Does Physical Therapy Help with Endometriosis Pain?
Physical therapy is a highly recommended treatment for many types of chronic pain, and endometriosis is no exception. A primary PT method used for endometriosis is pelvic floor therapy – since this condition is mainly associated with the reproductive system, the pelvic muscles are usually the area that is most heavily affected. Pelvic floor PT can reduce muscle tension and spasms, contributing to less pain and the ability to walk and stand comfortably for longer.
Other modalities used in general PT care are also usually helpful for endometriosis symptoms, with adaptations. For example, manual therapy for endometriosis specifically targets soft tissue that is affected by fibrous tissue growth, making movement less restricted. Various breathing and relaxation methods can be used proactively to manage endometriosis-related pain. And posture-related exercises and education on body mechanics allow for movement without unnecessary musculoskeletal work – essential for chronic pain conditions that cause patients to have less energy and feel tired more easily. Most people with endometriosis will need other medical treatment, and it is necessary to listen to your physician’s recommendations. But alongside the other things that you have been prescribed, PT can make your day-to-day life easier by reducing your susceptibility to pain and fatigue.
What Techniques and Exercises Are Used in Physical Therapy for Endometriosis?
As with any musculoskeletal condition, a physical therapist’s treatment for endometriosis will change based on the patient’s lifestyle and overall health needs. While everyone experiences different symptoms at different levels of intensity, however, there are certain methods that are useful for most people who have endometriosis.
For example, exercise is key to general physical therapy care, and in cases of endometriosis, gentle stretching of the hips, lower back, and pelvis and strengthening routines for the pelvic floor and lower core muscles can effectively combat symptoms in the long term. More specialized techniques that may be called for include soft tissue mobilization and myofascial release for endometriosis-related muscle tension, biofeedback for the pelvic floor, and mindfulness-based lower body movement, including specified routines of yoga poses.
What Are the Benefits of Physical Therapy Beyond Pain Relief?
The pain that comes from endometriosis can be a severe, daily problem. Therefore, pain management is most patients’ most pressing concern. However, chronic diseases such as endometriosis have many more symptoms and can cause far more issues – and physical therapy is well-suited to treat these as well. By focusing on particular problem areas of soft tissue, PT can improve flexibility and mobility, and therefore help patients stay active better and for longer. A natural result of this is increased energy during the day and better sleep at night. By tackling some of the mental aspects of chronic conditions, physical therapy can also give patients greater independence and confidence day-to-day, and therefore reduced stress and an increased ability to take part in work, household tasks, and recreation.
JAG Physical Therapy Supports Women’s Health and Pain Relief
Throughout the NY-NJ-PA area, JAG Physical Therapy is known as a leading name in general and specialized PT, pelvic treatment, and women’s health. At our more than 160 convenient locations around the region, our experienced and compassionate physical therapists will assess your specific condition and listen to your concerns to develop a personalized endometriosis treatment plan that is right for you. Our goal is to give you the tools you need to manage your chronic condition and get back to the life you love – schedule your appointment now to begin your program of safe and effective endometriosis symptom care.
