Endometriosis: Physiotherapy treatment options
Endometriosis is a painful condition that affects millions of women worldwide. It occurs when the tissue that lines the uterus grows outside of it, causing inflammation, scarring and pain in the pelvic region. While there is no known cure for endometriosis, there are various treatment options available, including physiotherapy.
How can Physiotherapy help?
Physiotherapy can be a valuable tool in managing the symptoms of endometriosis. It can help reduce pain, release associated muscle tension, improve pelvic floor strength, and provide techniques for managing stress and anxiety.
Pain management
Physiotherapy can help reduce pain by improving blood flow, reducing inflammation, reducing muscle tension, and releasing endorphins through exercise and acupuncture. Treatment techniques may include: pelvic floor release work (internal &/or external), massage, exercise, visceral release, and acupuncture to relieve pain and tension within and around the pelvic area.
Pelvic floor muscle training
Endometriosis can cause weakness, and sometimes increased tension, in the pelvic floor muscles, which can lead to pelvic pain, painful sex, and bladder and bowel problems. Physiotherapy can assess the pelvic floor muscles and use techniques to release tension, and strengthen the muscles. Strong pelvic floor muscles can help improve bladder & bowel control, and reduce the risk of prolapse.
Breathing and relaxation techniques
Endometriosis can cause anxiety and stress, which can exacerbate pain and discomfort. A physiotherapist can teach breathing and relaxation techniques that can help manage stress and improve mental well-being.
Posture and movement education
Poor posture and movement patterns can worsen the symptoms of endometriosis. A physiotherapist can assess your posture and provide exercises and education on how to move in a way that minimises pain and discomfort.
Lifestyle modifications
Physiotherapists can also provide advice on lifestyle modifications that can help manage endometriosis symptoms. This can include dietary changes, such as reducing inflammatory foods, and recommendations for exercise and activity that won’t exacerbate symptoms.
Patient stories
“Hannah Shanks at reCentre Health has been an invaluable support with my endo symptoms and her expertise on the condition is unparalleled to anybody I’ve spoken to before. I’d highly recommend you go and speak to her if you’re suffering from endo symptoms.”
“I am now on a journey to be free from chronic pelvic pain. I joined a Facebook group for London Endometriosis UK Support Group which I found via endometriosis UK. They offer advice and support. They suggested things that have been vital to my recovery such as physio, acupuncture, TENS machine, seeing a pain consultant.
If you are experiencing symptoms of endometriosis, contact us to book an assessment with one of our specialist women’s health physiotherapists.
Visit our women’s health page to learn more and read our patients’ stories and advice in full.
