Many people with endometriosis are beginning to understand that pelvic physical therapy may be the missing piece to their healing journey.  

Although we currently do not have a cure for endometriosis, healing from endo is still possible.  In this context, I use healing as a general term to describe the feeling of being healthy and able to carry on with the life you have been robbed of because of endometriosis.  

Healing can come in many forms and is a completely individualized process. To add, the end goal may be different from person to person. For those with excruciating pain, healing comes in the form of decreased pain and the ability to carry out activities of daily living. However, some endo warriors have only found that their biggest symptom related to endo is infertility. In that case, healing may come in the form of a healthy newborn baby.  

Whatever the case may be, pelvic physical therapists can help! 

What is a Physical Therapist? 

Physical Therapists (PT’s), in general, are experts in body movement. They are experts in human anatomy and use their knowledge to create treatment plans that “[promote movement], decrease pain, restore function and prevent disability” (3). 

PT’s are often master’s prepared clinicians, but moving forward new entry PT’s are now required to obtain their doctorate in physical therapy. Although this creates a lengthy process for aspiring Physical Therapists, this leaves patients knowing that they are likely in skilled hands. But can any PT treat an endometriosis patient? Unfortunately, no.  

Specialized Physical Therapists 

Just as physicians and nurses specialize, so do Physical Therapists. And although many can get hands-on training to gain their expertise, it is so beneficial to see that your PT has gone the extra mile to gain additional certification. That is, the CAPP-Pelvic certification.  

This is not to say that a pelvic PT is not highly skilled if they do not have additional certification. Many added certifications in healthcare come with high expenses and the requirement to have a very high amount of training in the field before applying to take such certifications. The expense of the training material and exam can deter some of the best from obtaining their CAPP-Pelvic certification.  

So, despite their certifications, what you want is a licensed Physical Therapist who has thorough training in women’s health PT, pelvic floor dysfunction, and pelvic pain.  

How Can PT help? 

Below are ways in which the Women’s Health APTA describes Pelvic PT’s helpful: 

“They are trained to evaluate and treat:” 

• Pelvic and abdominal pain from 
• Joint dysfunction 
• Scar tissue 
• Nerve irritation 
• Muscle tightness, weakness or balance (2). 

Treatment includes hands-on techniques to address: 

• Muscle tightness 
• Tender points 
• Targeted exercises to improve muscle strength, coordination, and flexibility 
• Scar tissue mobilization 
• Patient education in ways to reduce stress and pain (2). 

Treatment strategies may include: 

• Biofeedback 
• Posture training 
• Breathing techniques 
• Relaxation to reduce pelvic pain, improve function, and enhance quality of life (2).

Pelvic PT for Infertility

For those trying to conceive, you may want to ask your physician about Pelvic PT. One study used the Clear Passage Approach (CPA) protocol to treat patients with infertility. The study was a 10-year retrospective study that found a 42.8% success rate in patients who were treated with CPA. Even better, “for those who underwent IVF (In Vitro Fertilization) after CPA treatment, the pregnancy rates were even higher at 55.4%. These findings were also comparable to or better than standard medical interventions published in current literature (1).” 

Finding a Pelvic Physical Therapists 

Depending on your location, you may be able to self-refer yourself to your preferred physical therapist. But many states, countries, and insurance plans require you to be referred to a Pelvic PT by your physician.  

My advice: Do your due diligence to gather research to present to your physician. This will help them see the benefits of Pelvic PT, even if they are unfamiliar with its use. Secondly, come armed with a specific practitioner in mind. You can find a Physical Therapist using the following directories: