When conventional therapy has failed, the Pain Management Center at South Pointe Hospital specializes in treating persistent pain coming from the limbs, trunk, pelvis or urogenital areas. Often this type of pain is caused by ovarian cysts, cancer, endometriosis, pelvic inflammatory disease, kidney and bladder problems, an accident or injury or failed back surgery.
Factors that contribute or compound musculoskeletal pain include poor posture, incorrect lifting and obesity.
Following a complete medical evaluation, pelvic pain relief may begin with:
- Electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) - a method of applying controlled, low-voltage electricity to the body to relieve pain externally
- Implanted medication devices - surgically implanted pump is designed to deliver a controlled amount of medication through a catheter to a specific area in the body to relieve pain
- Lifestyle changes
- Medication management
- Nerve blocks - diagnostic and therapeutic - the interruption of a nerve's function by the injection of a local anesthetic agent or other drug
- Physical therapy - can increase strength, flexibility and mobility while decreasing pain; includes heat, massage, and electrical stimulation
- Relaxation techniques
See the available treatments section in the Pain Management Center for a comprehensive description of further treatment options.