Pudendal Nerve Entrapment is a relatively unknown condition that can cause pain and numbness in the genitals, buttocks, and thighs. Although it is not well known, there are treatments available that can help treat the symptoms with the help of physical therapy.
In this blog post, we’ll take a closer look at what pudendal nerve entrapment is, why men are still at risk for it, and what treatment options are available. So if you are unaware of pudendal nerve entrapment in males and how can this affliction be cured this one is for you.
Definition
The pudendal nerve is essential to sensation and function in your pelvic region, including the anus and genitals. You can use this nerve to send movement (motor) and sensation information from your genital area. Pudendal nerves pass through the pelvic floor muscles which support your organs, ending at your external genitalia. But what if this nerve becomes compressed?
Pudendal nerve entrapment is a condition in which the nerve becomes compressed or damaged, leading to pain, numbness, or weakness in the affected area. Most of the time it is underdiagnosed, poorly treated, and causes significant impairment of quality of life. A person can experience such intense agony in the genital area and seat region that they are unable to urinate, have intercourse, or even sit down without experiencing intense, shooting, burning pain.
Though it can be very uncomfortable and distressing for most men, don’t worry because the cure is available.
Why Men is Still At-Risk?
Pudendal neuralgia is most common in women but males can also be affected. The possible causes are:
- Prolonged Sitting
- Cycling
- Horse Riding
- Pelvic Surgery
- Pelvis Broken Bone
- Constipation
- Contraction of the pudendal nerve by the nearby muscles or tissue
But take note that sometimes in some cases causes are not found. But there are still ways to know whether your experiencing are symptoms of pudendal neuralgia. Here are some examples:
- Pain sensitivity increased
- Pain and numbness in the pelvis
- Swelling or sting on your perineum
- A frequent and sudden need to go to the bathroom
- Hard to reach orgasm, pain during sex, and erectile dysfunction
If ever you are experiencing these, it’s better to seek medical attention especially if the pain is causing you trouble. Early treatment can be a great help to prevent more pain and discomfort.
Physical Therapy for Pudendal Neuralgia
The main goal of physical therapy for treating your pudendal neuralgia is to address where the factor originates. Taking a detailed medical history and asking about your lifestyle are the first steps toward determining what is causing the pain.
Pelvic floor physical therapy is a conservative treatment option for pudendal nerve entrapment. Physical therapists include it in your treatment because it can help you in many ways.
Pelvic floor physical therapy can guide your body in restoring the structures that are contributing to the dysfunction of the pudendal nerve. If there are certain muscles in your pelvic floor that are affecting your pudendal nerve, these exercises will help release them. Additionally, physical therapy ensures that your tailbone is properly aligned and also helps reduce the tension in the ligaments where the pudendal nerve passes by.
Among the treatment options in PT is manual therapy to improve scar tissue mobility and release tension in tight muscles, strengthening the pelvic girdle muscles to improve pelvic mechanics, strengthening the pelvic floor muscles to improve pelvic floor coordination, lifestyle advice and modifications, and home exercises.
Furthermore, your therapist will help you identify and address specific postures, habits, and activities that may contribute to or exacerbate your symptoms. Poor or prolonged sitting posture is often the main culprit, but many other factors can also contribute. Men, for example, have a habit of clenching their muscles near this nerve when they are stressed or doing various activities, which can increase pressure on the nerve and increase symptoms.
At Pelvis.NYC we believed that no size fits all model. That is why we create a different treatment plan for every patient based on their symptoms. Knowing where your pain is coming from and making you comfortable is our main priority. So visit us now and you can get a FREE 15-minute teleconsultation.
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