Debunking Myths about Pelvic Pain when you have scoliosis
Pelvic pain and scoliosis are two conditions that affect millions of people worldwide. Unfortunately, they are both very complex and often misunderstood, which means that people are often left with delayed diagnosis, inadequate treatment and unnecessary suffering. Misconceptions and myths surrounding these conditions, individually, can lead to confusion and unnecessary fear, let alone when added to the presence of spine instability or a compensated pelvis secondary to scoliosis. In this blog, we’ll debunk some common myths about pelvic pain and scoliosis aiming to provide clarity and understanding.
Myth 1: Pelvic pain only affects women.
Reality: While pelvic pain is more commonly reported in women, it can affect people of all genders. Conditions such as pelvic floor dysfunction, endometriosis, and musculoskeletal issues can cause pelvic pain in both men and women. It’s essential to recognize that pelvic pain is not exclusive to one gender and seek appropriate medical care regardless of gender identity.
Myth 2: Scoliosis only occurs in children and adolescents.
Reality: Scoliosis is often associated with adolescence due to its prevalence during growth spurts. However, scoliosis is starting to be seen at an alarming rate in our pre- and post-menopausal age groups. Adult-onset scoliosis often results as a secondary collapse from years of degenerative changes in the spine, injury, or genetic factors. When the spine starts to fail, the pelvis is the next body block to compensate. This means that it might tilt upward, shift out to the side or twist in counter-rotation to what’s happening in your back. When this happens, all the muscle attachments, including those vulnerable in our pelvic floor, become over-stretched, weak and imbalanced. They are unable to perform as they’re supposed to leading to other conditions including urinary incontinence, constipation and SI joint pain. It’s crucial for adults to be aware of the signs and symptoms of scoliosis and seek evaluation if necessary.
Myth 3: Pelvic pain is always related to gynecological issues.
Reality: While gynecological conditions like endometriosis can cause pelvic pain, there are numerous other potential causes. Musculoskeletal issues, such as sacroiliac joint dysfunction or pelvic floor muscle tension, can also lead to pelvic pain. Additionally, conditions like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) or urinary tract infections (UTIs) can manifest with pelvic pain. A thorough evaluation by a healthcare provider is essential to determine the underlying cause of pelvic pain accurately.
Myth 4: Scoliosis always causes back pain.
Reality: While back pain is a common symptom of scoliosis, not everyone with scoliosis experiences pain. The severity of symptoms can vary greatly depending on the degree of spinal curvature and other factors. Some individuals with mild scoliosis may be asymptomatic, while others may experience discomfort or pain. Treatment options for scoliosis aim to manage symptoms and prevent progression when there is pain; however, the value of understanding your curve pattern, postural habits and triggers that can worsen your scoliosis as you age are even easier to implement when pain isn’t a factor so don’t wait until you have pain to seek out a certified Schroth scoliosis practitioner.
Myth 5: Surgery is the only treatment option for pelvic pain and scoliosis.
Reality: Surgery may be recommended for severe cases of pelvic pain or scoliosis that haven’t responded to conservative treatments. However, there are numerous non-surgical interventions available for both conditions. Physical therapy, medication, lifestyle modifications, and alternative therapies such as acupuncture or massage therapy can help manage symptoms and improve quality of life. Individualized treatment plans should be tailored to each person’s specific needs and preferences by a qualified and certified scoliosis specialist.
In conclusion, debunking myths about pelvic pain and scoliosis is essential for promoting accurate understanding and informed decision-making. By dispelling misconceptions, individuals affected by these conditions can understand how to seek appropriate care and support without waiting until symptoms become so bad they are interfering in their quality of life. Remember, early detection, proper diagnosis, and personalized treatment by a skilled pelvic floor or scoliosis specialist are key to effectively managing pelvic pain and scoliosis. If you or someone you know is experiencing symptoms, don’t hesitate to consult a healthcare professional for guidance and support.
If you’re not sure if you need help or who to reach out to first, join us for a complimentary discovery call or sign up for our adult and/or child scoliosis workshops every Tuesday evening at our clinic, to see how our services might be of help. We can be reached at www.scolioaustin.com or 512-629-4431. We look forward to helping you achieve your best spine possible!
