The Relationship Between Lower Back Pain and Pelvic Pain
Most of us will experience back pain at some point in our lives. We might get a little too enthusiastic when moving furniture or develop muscular imbalances due to a sedentary job. But sometimes, back pain isn’t really back pain–rather, it’s rooted in dysfunction in your pelvic area.
Unfortunately, pelvic pain is often harder to discuss than back pain. It often stems from dysfunction with your pelvic floor, the band of muscles that support your bladder, bowels, and genitals. It can also indicate an issue with your sacroiliac joints.
Both back and pelvic pain can strike men and women–but women do tend to have more issues with pelvic pain, including pelvic-related back pain. Bodily changes during pregnancy are an especially common culprit.
If you’re dealing with pain in your lower back or pelvic area–or both–call Columbus Physical Therapy to schedule an appointment. We’ll help determine the actual source of your pain so you can find lasting relief.
Understanding the Causes of Lower Back and Pelvic Pain
Lower back pain is widespread and has several potential causes, including herniated discs, sprains and strains, poor posture, and spinal arthritis–not to mention various contributing factors like poor posture or muscular weakness.
But if that pain spreads into your pelvic area, there may be something else going on. In fact, lower back pain without a clear underlying cause often stems from dysfunction in the pelvic area, such as the following:
Helping You Find Relief, No Matter the Source
When it comes to pain in your lower back and pelvis, the first step our therapists take is to identify the source of your pain. That way, we can provide the customized treatment you need to resolve the pain at its root rather than merely treating symptoms.
We’ll begin with a comprehensive evaluation. Our therapists provide a welcoming, discreet space where you can freely share your symptoms–including pelvic-related symptoms that might feel embarrassing. Make sure you share…
- The exact location of your pain
- The pain’s sensations–is it burning? Dull? Aching?
- When do you feel pain? Is it persistent? Do you mostly notice it when you wake up?
- Any restrictions in range of motion you might be experiencing
- Any pelvic-related symptoms you might be experiencing, such as incontinence or sexual dysfunction
Once we’ve reviewed your symptoms and taken a full health history, we’ll conduct an in-depth physical evaluation, including running several movement screens. All this information helps us determine whether or not your pain is rooted in your lower back, pelvic area, or somewhere else–and that helps us develop your personalized treatment plan.
Targeted Treatments So You Can Find Relief
Our treatment plans will vary based on your exact needs. In general, though, we aim to help you with the following:
- Find immediate pain relief through manual therapy techniques or gentle stretches
- Improve mobility through targeted range of motion exercises
- Strengthen any weakened or impaired muscles, whether in your back or pelvic floor
- Provide you with the tools you need to avoid future bouts of pain
Call Us Today To Get Started!
If you’re struggling with back or pelvic pain, the Columbus Physical Therapy therapists will help you get to the bottom of things. Call to make your appointment today!
Exercise of the Month
PRONE HIP EXTENSION
Start by lying face down on the floor. Gently tighten your abdominals/core. While keeping your knee straight, squeeze your butt muscle and slowly raise one leg off the ground. Hold for 2 seconds. Slowly lower and repeat with the other leg.
3 Sets, 10 Reps.
Staff Spotlight: Jami Kruse, PTA • Humphrey Physical Therapy
Role at HPT: Physical Therapist Assistant, Clinical Director of Humphrey Physical Therapy
With HPT Since: May 2021
Education/Certifications: NECC, Associates of Applied Science- PTA
Certified in cupping, taping, and scraping.
What she loves most about her job: Getting to know each individual patient and watching them improve week by week.
Professional Highlight: Orthopedics and Sports Medicine
Get to Know Me
- Favorite hobby: Camping
- Fun fact: I enjoy fishing and have caught both a “master angler” bass and bluegill.
- Favorite Sports Team: Husker Volleyball
- Coffee order or go-to snack: Anything Chocolate
More About Me
I love all animals. My family and I have horses, dogs, and chickens on our acreage.
How To Have a Great Summer-PT Style!
The days are getting longer, the air is getting warmer, and school is winding down. That means one thing: summer is on its way! Here are some tips to ensure a healthy summer for you and your family:
- Drink plenty of water. While you should strive to stay hydrated all year round, it’s particularly important in warmer weather.
- Ease back into summer activities gradually. Whether you’re hitting the pool more frequently or taking more evening walks thanks to the later sunsets, avoid doing too much too soon. Start slow, don’t push too hard, and remember to warm up first.
- Don’t skip your PT sessions. We know summer’s busy. But keeping up with your physical therapy will help you stay active and pain-free throughout the season–and beyond!
Ready to make the most of the summer months? Schedule an appointment with Columbus Physical Therapy today!
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Return to Columbus Physical Therapy and Let’s Continue Your Journey to Wellness Together. Schedule Your Appointment Now!
These Smoked Salmon, Avocado, and Cucumber Bites are a fresh, flavorful combination that feels both light and satisfying. Perfect as a quick snack or elegant appetizer, they deliver a refreshing crunch with every bite.
Seasonal Recipe
Smoked Salmon, Avocado and Cucumber Bites
- 1 medium cucumber
- 1 large avocado, peeled and pit removed
- 1/2 tbsp lime juice
- 6 oz smoked salmon
- chives, for garnish
- black pepper, for garnish
Slice the cucumber approximately 1/4-inch thick and lay flat on a serving plate. Add the avocado and lime juice to a bowl and use a fork to mash until creamy. Assemble the bites by spreading a small amount of avocado on each cucumber, then topping with a thin slice of smoked salmon. Garnish each bite with finely chopped chives and cracked black pepper. Serve immediately.
May Word Scramble
edaldnnoi
nhiigfs
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prsnig
eskbta
lveendar
Answer Key
dandelion
fishing
taurus
spring
basket
lavender
Patient Testimonial
“After shoulder surgery, I spent about four months in physical therapy with Sara, and I couldn’t be more grateful. She did an outstanding job helping me manage pain, regain my range of motion, and rebuild strength. Her knowledge, encouragement, and positive attitude made a huge difference in my recovery. Thanks to Sara, my shoulder feels stronger and more mobile than I expected, and I truly appreciate everything she has done. I would highly recommend Sara and the entire Columbus Physical Therapy team!”
-Christopher N.
Patient Testimonial
“The team at Humphrey Physical Therapy has been great to work with over the past few weeks. They originally helped my wife with her rehabilitation after pregnancy, and based on her experience, I decided to try it myself. Over the past few years, I’ve developed ongoing shoulder and lower back pain, and with winter being a slower time of year, my wife convinced me it was time to take care of it. The staff has done an excellent job identifying and correcting muscle imbalances, and they have also helped keep me accountable with the workouts I needed. I have been very happy with my progress.”
-Derick M.
Patient Testimonial
“As you get a certain age, your body lets you know that some things are harder to do. The exercises here have helped me improve my strength and balance. Some exercises are challenging, but that shows you where you need help. I really appreciate the guidance Katie gave me with these exercises. I would recommend anyone to come to Northeast Nebraska Physical Therapy, and I will return for any follow-up care in the future.”
-Milton S.
