About Pudendal Neuralgia (PN)
PN affects women more than men and often in ages 40 to 60 years old; seen in 1-20% of chronic pelvic pain cases, with a higher incident among cyclists or post-childbirth. It is a chronic neurogenic pain condition caused by irritation, compression, or damage to the pudendal nerve, which supplies sensation and motor function to the pelvic floor, genitals, perineum, and anus. It often results in severe, burning or stabbing pain that severely impacts quality of life, particularly during sitting.
Symptoms
Sharp, shooting, burning, or electric-shock pain in the genitals (clitoris/penis, vulva/scrotum), perineum, anus/rectum, or pelvis—worsens with sitting (relieved by standing/lying), cycling, or straining; numbness, hypersensitivity, urinary urgency/frequency, painful bowel movements, sexual dysfunction (dyspareunia, erectile issues), and fecal incontinence. Pain builds through the day.
Known Causes
- Primary: Entrapment/compression at key sites (e.g., Alcock’s canal, sacrospinous ligament) from prolonged sitting, cycling/horseback riding (microtrauma/fibrosis), childbirth trauma, spinal pelvic instability, or pelvic muscle hypertonicity.
- Secondary: Direct injury/surgery (pelvic operations), tumors/lesions, multiple sclerosis, chronic constipation, or iatrogenic stretch during procedures, along with nutrient deficiencies, systemic toxicities or infections (e.g. herpes).
Schedule a $69 New Patient Appointment at McPherson Chiropractic Center
Schedule a $69 New Patient Appointment at McPherson Chiropractic Center
