Central sensitization corresponds to an enhancement in the functional status of neurons and circuits in nociceptive pathways throughout the neuraxis caused by increases in membrane excitability, synaptic efficacy, or reduced inhibition. In short, it means that central sensitization intensifies the pain felt in the body.
Some people with central sensitization also have preexisting health conditions that may increase the risk of them experiencing the pain of central sensitization syndrome.
Having a chronic pain condition, such as arthritis
Family history
Previous serious injury or infection
Having an autoimmune condition, such as lupus or multiple sclerosis
Patients with chronic pelvic pain conditions such as endometriosis
Diagnosing central sensitization in the setting of pelvic pain requires an in-depth examination of both the central and peripheral nerves evaluating the muscles within the pelvis, learning of your medical history, and getting a full picture of your symptoms and lifestyle.
Here’s what you can expect when you are a patient at Pelvic Rehabilitation Medicine:
Step One – First, our providers will ask questions about your medical history and listen to your symptoms to get a full picture of what is going on with you.
Step Two – Next, an external exam of your hips, abdomen, and posterior sacrum.
Step Three – Next, your pelvic nerves are evaluated externally with a soft cotton tip.
Step Four – Next, with your consent, gel is placed on a gloved finger and an internal exam is performed to allow us to evaluate the nerves and muscles within the pelvis. There is no speculum required as we are evaluating the pelvic floor muscles and nerves not the organs.
Step Five – Sometimes patients will need Imaging to help us understand if there is an associated cause of the pelvic nerve and muscle pain and dysfunction found on exam.
Step Six – Oftentimes, treatment can be started the same day as there is no down time. Our patients have been suffering with pelvic pain symptoms for 6+ months. We like to get them on the road to feeling better as soon as we can as the longer the symptoms are present the harder it is for us to resolve them.
Meet with a pelvic pain specialist to have your pain and symptoms evaluated and learn more about the next steps we can take to help you with your journey to healing.
Dr. Allyson Shrikhande had a discussion with Dr. Melanie Carminati of Inspira Physical Therapy.
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