Pudendal Neuralgia

Pudendal neuralgia is a condition in which the pudendal nerve becomes irritated, leading to pain and/or tingling anywhere along its distribution. It often results in chronic pelvic pain. the nerve can become compromised through trauma, compression, entrapment, or being stretched.

Symptoms

  • Pain and/or tingling along the nerve distribution
  • From the sacrum to the anus,
  • May report pain in perineum, clitoris, or penis
  • Pain may feel shooting, aching, burning or stabbing
  • Pain may refer down the leg or into the inner thigh
  • Pain aggravated by sitting, cycling
  • Pain often relieved by standing, lying down, sitting on the toilet
  • Pain is often one sided
  • Bladder dysfunction
  • Urinary frequency
  • Bowel dysfunction
  • Painful defecation
  • Constipation
  • Sexual dysfunction
  • Erectile dysfunction
  • PGAD (persistent genital arousal disorder)
  • Increased sensitivity to touch
  • Pain with wearing tight clothes

Diagnosis

  • Patient’s history of symptoms
  • History of fall, childbirth, prolonged sitting/biking or from surgery may precede symptoms
  • Physical therapy Evaluation
  • MRN (Medical Resonance Neurography)
  • EMG (Electromyography)
  • Pudendal nerve motor latency test

Hot Tips

  • Wear looser clothing
  • Avoid aggravating activities
  • Sit on a donut shaped cushion
  • Use a custom bike seat
  • Avoid straining with bowel movements
  • Adequate hydration to decrease risk of constipation
  • Fresh fruit, vegetables, high fiber diet

More Information on Pudendal Neuralgia

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