Endometriosis is a disease in which tissue similar to the lining of the uterus grows outside the uterus. This leads to inflammation and scar tissue forming in the pelvic region. It can cause severe pain in the pelvis and make it harder to get pregnant.

Endometriosis can start at a person’s first menstrual period and last until menopause.

There are no known causes at this time for endometriosis. However, research shows possible causes:

Retrograde menstrual period flow – This is most likely the cause of endometriosis. Some of the tissue shed during the period flows through the fallopian tube into other areas of the body, such as the pelvis.

Genetic/Hereditary – Certain families may have predisposing genetic factors to the disease.

Immune System – A faulty immune system may fail to identify and act against endometrial tissue growing outside of the uterus.

Surgery – During a surgery to the abdominal area, such as a Cesarean (C-section) or hysterectomy, Endometrial tissue can be transported directly.

Pain, especially excessive menstrual cramps located in the abdomen and/or lower back

Infertility – trouble getting pregnant

Pain during and/or after intercourse

Abnormal or heavy menstrual flow that may last for several days

Bladder and bowel dysfunctions

Other gastrointestinal problems, such as diarrhea, constipation, bloating and/or nausea

Chronic Fatigue

Pelvic floor dysfunction is commonly found in women with endometriosis. When this occurs, pelvic and lower abdominal tissue tightens in response to chronic pain and inflammation. Even after surgery, muscular and fascial dysfunction may continue to be secondary causes of pain.

Endometriosis is a very debilitating condition. Yet many women and young girls are told “It is normal to have period pain”. And they suffer in silence for years! No, it’s not normal to have stabbing, piercing pain with menstruation. Specialized Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy is an integral and effective approach in management for endometriosis.

Because each patient is unique in their presentation of endometriosis, a customized plan can include one or more of the following treatments:

Myofascial Release – Improves mobility and reduces scarring of lower abdominal, pelvic diaphragm/fascia.

Trigger Point Release/ positional inhibition – To release tight, pain producing nodes in pelvic, lower back, hip muscles and enhance muscle flexibility

Biofeedback – Pelvic floor identification and awareness, strengthening for uptraining and relaxation for downtraining, coordination training

Relaxation Techniques/Breathing – Pain influences breathing by increasing flow and frequency. Relaxation tools can effectively manage pain associated with Endometriosis, and help pelvic floor muscles relax.

Stretching Exercises – Focusing on hip, and lower back muscles to restore optimum mobility in the lumbo-pelvic region.

Postural Education – Forward stoop posture is commonly seen with endometriosis, due to pain guarding pattern. This leads to tightness of hip flexors and abdominal muscles. Correction of this faulty posture is important to create correct alignment.

Visceral Manipulation – “Endo belly” is the term used to describe bloating and pain in the lower abdomen. Visceral mobilization can help GI symptoms associated with endometriosis.

Home Exercises – Follow up exercises include stretching, breathing, self belly massage, and using vaginal dilators (if needed).

We accept PPO/POS plans for most insurance companies. Although most insurance companies cover physical therapy, what they cover varies greatly. Please call us at 201-366-1116 or complete below form so we can verify your specific plan benefits.