Pelvic Pain When Sitting

Sitting can exacerbate pelvic pain, a condition that affects numerous women. When this pain occurs, it can interfere with conducting daily life, working, and achieving an overall feeling of wellness. 

In the article below, we will delve into what causes pelvic pain, why it is particularly uncomfortable when in a sitting position, and what can be done to make the afflicted feel better. We also discuss how physical therapy in San Ramon, CA, can help.

Causes of Pelvic Pain When Sitting

Pelvic pain is not a normal part of a woman's life and shouldn't be endured as such. You are not alone if you have pain in your pelvic region whenever you sleep. Here is a quick overview of several pelvic conditions that cause pain.

Pelvic Floor Dysfunction

Pelvic floor dysfunction occurs when the muscles that make up the pelvic floor are too tight or too weak. This leads to a muscle imbalance that can result in pain when sitting. Childbirth, trauma, and too much sitting can lead to some muscle imbalance or issues lower down in the pelvis.

Endometriosis

Endometriosis occurs when tissue like the uterine lining grows outside the uterus. This tissue is not shed as it would be in a normal menstrual cycle, and it swells and bleeds just as the cells in the uterine lining do in a normal menstrual cycle. Because this extra tissue can't go anywhere, it gets on and sticks to nearby organs, which can lead to all types of uterine problems.

Interstitial Cystitis

A chronic condition that causes the inflammation of the bladder, interstitial cystitis, leads to pelvic pain. That pain often intensifies when you sit because the pressure on the bladder can lead to irritation. Some people with interstitial cystitis also experience urinary urgency or frequency.

Coccyx (Tailbone) Pain

Coccydynia can arise from various causes, including injuries, poor posture, or sitting on hard surfaces. This condition can make sitting difficult. Although tailbone pain can be caused by a variety of factors, the most common ones are trauma or prolonged pressure on the coccyx.

Piriformis Syndrome

The piriformis muscle, which is in the buttocks, can occasionally become tight or spasm. When it does, the sciatic nerve can get compressed, resulting in pelvic pain that is exacerbated by sitting. This condition may also cause tingling or numbness in the legs.

Uterine Fibroids and Ovarian Cysts

Non-cancerous growths that can develop in or on the uterus and ovaries include both uterine fibroids and ovarian cysts. While not malignant, these growths can cause a lot of pressure in the pelvic area, leading to some very uncomfortable sensations. And the discomfort in the pelvic area often happens when you're seated.

How to Manage Pelvic Pain When Sitting

If you have mild pelvic pain while sitting, you might be able to lessen its effects by following these techniques:

Adjust Your Posture

Posture plays a big role in determining how much pelvic pressure you have, and good posture is vital for minimizing it. When sitting, an upright and straight-back position is a must: Your chair should be supportive; your feet should be flat and firmly planted on the ground.

Take Breaks and Stretch

Remember to take regular breaks! Stand up and stretch or walk around for a few minutes to relieve built-up tension. It feels so good! You probably already know that stretching has many benefits, like improving posture, relieving back pain, reducing stress, and better circulation. You may think of stretching as something you do when you're warm, like after a workout. Contrarily, stretching is good even when it's not a workout.

Pelvic Floor Exercises

Strengthening your pelvic floor can be beneficial. Kegel exercises, in which you contract and relax the pelvic muscles, can help improve muscle tone. You might also consider consulting a physical therapist who specializes in pelvic floor health. They can help you with exercises specifically tailored to your needs.

Heat or Cold Therapy

Using a heating pad on the pelvic area can help relax tight muscles and reduce pain. Alternatively, an ice pack can reduce inflammation and numb painful areas. Make sure to wrap the heat or ice in a cloth to protect your skin.

When to See a Physical Therapist

Your therapist reviews your symptoms and physical condition to understand the nature and source of your distress. The therapist will ask about your medical history and the specifics of your pelvic pain to gain a clearer picture. Then, the therapist may perform a physical exam. 

Following this, the therapist may order some diagnostic tests like an ultrasound or pelvic exam. Once the pain's root cause has been determined, you and Pilates Physical Therapy in San Ramon will work together to devise a treatment plan.

Conclusion

Simple measures can help provide relief in the pelvic region. These include adjusting your posture, taking breaks at regular intervals, doing Kegel exercises, and using heat or ice. If these low-risk, low-cost options don’t work, or if your pain worsens, seek medical care. You can’t be at your best if you’re not taking care of your pelvic area.