Pelvic Pain

Name: Gerling Spine Care and Research Institute
Rating: 4.4

Pelvic pain can arise from muscle, nerve, or joint dysfunction in the lower back or pelvis. It often leads to persistent discomfort that affects mobility, posture, and quality of life.

Understanding Pelvic Pain

Pelvic pain is discomfort or pressure in the lower abdomen or pelvic region. It can be constant or intermittent, sharp or dull, and may develop suddenly or gradually. Because multiple organs, muscles, and nerves share space in the pelvis, pinpointing the exact cause can be complex, but effective diagnosis and treatment are essential for long-term relief.

At the Gerling Institute, we approach pelvic pain with a comprehensive perspective, recognizing that it can stem from musculoskeletal, neurological, or internal organ sources. Our team aims to identify the root cause of pain and develop a personalized treatment plan that restores comfort, function, and quality of life.

Common Causes of Pelvic Pain

Understanding the underlying cause is critical. In many cases, pelvic pain is multifactorial, involving both structural and neurological components that must be addressed together. Common causes include:

Muscle or Nerve Dysfunction

Tight pelvic floor muscles or nerve entrapment, such as pudendal neuralgia, can cause chronic pelvic pain and discomfort.

Spinal Disorders

Conditions like lumbar or sacral disc herniation, sacroiliac (SI) joint dysfunction, or nerve root compression can refer pain into the pelvic region.

Gynecologic Conditions

Endometriosis, ovarian cysts, and uterine fibroids are common gynecologic sources of pelvic pain in women.

Urologic or Gastrointestinal Issues

Inflammation or irritation from bladder disorders (such as interstitial cystitis) or bowel conditions (like IBS) can trigger pelvic discomfort.

Post-Surgical or Injury-Related Pain

Pelvic trauma, childbirth, or scar tissue from prior surgeries may lead to chronic pain and mobility limitations.

Signs and Symptoms

Pelvic pain may present differently from patient to patient. Symptoms can include:

Persistent aching or pressure in the lower abdomen, hips, or groin
Pain during sitting, standing, or sexual activity
Radiating discomfort into the lower back or thighs
Muscle spasms or pelvic tightness
Numbness, tingling, or burning sensations in the pelvic region
Changes in bladder or bowel habits

Professional evaluation is strongly recommended if pain is severe, persistent, or associated with neurological symptoms such as numbness or weakness.

Diagnosis

Because pelvic pain can have overlapping causes, accurate diagnosis requires a thorough and multidisciplinary approach. At the Gerling Institute, evaluation may include:

Physical examination to assess posture, movement, and pelvic floor muscle tension
Neurological assessment to identify nerve compression or irritation
Imaging studies, such as an MRI or a CT scan, are used to evaluate spinal alignment, disc health, and pelvic structures
Diagnostic injections to help localize the source of pain (e.g., SI joint, facet joint, or nerve root)

Our team collaborates closely with other specialists when needed—including gynecology, urology, and pain management—to ensure the most accurate and holistic diagnosis.

Treatment Options

Treatment is tailored to the underlying cause of pain and each patient’s unique goals.
Non-surgical options may include:

Physical therapy and pelvic floor rehabilitation
Anti-inflammatory or neuropathic medications
Image-guided injections (nerve blocks, SI joint injections)
Lifestyle modification, posture training, and ergonomics
Regenerative therapies such as PRP or stem-cell-based treatments, when appropriate

If structural issues like disc herniation or severe nerve compression are contributing to pelvic pain, minimally invasive surgical techniques may be recommended to relieve pressure and stabilize the affected area.

Why Choose the Gerling Institute for Pelvic Pain Treatment

Pelvic pain often involves complex interactions between the spine, muscles, and nerves, and at the Gerling Institute, we specialize in uncovering those connections. Our holistic model integrates regenerative medicine, advanced imaging, and multidisciplinary rehabilitation to treat both the physical and neurological roots of pelvic pain.

Guided by Dr. Michael Gerling’s pioneering approach to musculoskeletal care, our team blends cutting-edge technology with deep compassion, empowering each patient to heal on every level—physical, emotional, and mental. You’re not just treated for pain here; you’re supported through recovery with personalized care that helps restore your comfort, balance, and confidence.

We’re here to help you move forward.

Relief starts with experienced spine and pain care. Contact us today to schedule your consultation and begin your path toward lasting relief.