Pudendal neuralgia is a chronic pain condition caused by irritation or compression of the pudendal nerve. This nerve is responsible for sensation and function in the pelvis.
When this nerve becomes inflamed or trapped, it can cause sharp, burning, or pressure-like pain that interferes with daily activities, especially when sitting.
Though often misunderstood and difficult to diagnose, pudendal neuralgia is treatable. With proper evaluation and a personalized plan from a pain specialist like Ioannis Skaribas, MD, DABA, FASA, of Expert Pain in Houston, Texas, many people find meaningful relief.
Read on to learn more about the causes of pudendal neuralgia, the symptoms, and pain management options that can help you regain comfort and control.
The pudendal nerve runs from the lower spine through the pelvis, supplying sensation to areas including the genitals, perineum, and rectum. When this nerve becomes irritated, compressed, or damaged, it can lead to pudendal neuralgia, which causes chronic pelvic pain that may worsen with sitting and improve when standing or lying down.
The condition disproportionately affects women, occurring more than twice as often as in men.
Pudendal nerve irritation can develop from several situations, including:
Infections or inflammatory conditions, while less common, are also potential contributors.
Determining the exact cause of pudendal neuralgia can be difficult, as many patients experience the condition due to a combination of mechanical stress, muscle imbalance, and nerve sensitivity.
Pudendal neuralgia symptoms vary, but common experiences include:
Because these symptoms overlap with those of other pelvic conditions, proper evaluation is essential for an accurate diagnosis.
Dr. Skaribas offers a comprehensive approach to pain management to help you find relief. Depending on your symptoms and medical history, treatment may include:
Specialized physical therapy can reduce muscle tension, improve alignment, and decrease pressure on the pudendal nerve.
Nerve pain often responds best to medications that calm irritation, such as anti-neuropathic agents or muscle relaxants. Dr. Skaribas determines what’s appropriate based on your needs.
These injections deliver targeted medication to reduce inflammation around the nerve. Nerve blocks can provide significant relief and help confirm the diagnosis.
Changes such as ergonomic seat cushions, posture adjustments, reducing prolonged sitting, or modifying exercise routines can reduce irritation to the nerve.
When conservative treatments don’t offer enough relief, Dr. Skaribas may recommend options such as radiofrequency ablation or neuromodulation. These approaches aim to interrupt pain signals or improve nerve function.
Pudendal neuralgia can be physically and emotionally exhausting, but the team at Expert Pain can help you find relief. Dr. Skaribas understands how disruptive pelvic nerve pain can be, and he’s here to help you find answers and relief.
If you’re experiencing persistent pelvic pain, reach out for an evaluation. Contact Expert Pain today to schedule an appointment.
