Endometriosis is the 2nd most common gynaecological condition in the UK. It occurs when tissue similar to the uterine lining grows outside the uterus, leading to inflammation, scarring, and adhesions.
In our clinic, we see firsthand how deeply Endometriosis can affect our patients’ daily lives, but the good news is that physiotherapy can help enormously. The pain, discomfort, and uncertainty that come with this condition can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to go through it alone. While medical treatments such as surgery and medication play a role in managing the condition, physiotherapy offers a gentle, non-invasive approach to improving your quality of life. The therapy aims to improve mobility, reduce pain, and restore your body’s natural function—so you can get back to doing what you love.
Endometriosis Common Symptoms
- Chronic pelvic pain
- Painful periods (dysmenorrhoea)
- Pain during or after intercourse (dyspareunia)
- Bowel and bladder dysfunction
- urinary incontinence & Pelvic Organ Prolapse
- Lower back, hip pain and sciatica
- Fatigue, stress, anxiety
- Infertility
Physiotherapy Treatment options for Endometriosis
1. Comprehensive Assessment and Examination
We will listen to your whole story and ask many questions to understand your symptoms. Our assessment includes:
- Evaluating pelvic floor function
- Assessing posture and movement patterns
- Identifying musculoskeletal restrictions and weaknesses
- Understanding pain triggers and daily activity limitations
This helps us create a personalised treatment plan that works for you.
2. Pain Management Strategies
This is the most essential part of the treatment. Pain management is much more than medication; there are ways to manage pain more effectively. We’ll guide you through techniques to ease tightness and relax your nervous system.
- Breathing and Relaxation Techniques
- Gentle Stretches & Mobility exercises
- Pain Education – Understanding how your pain patterns work can empower you to take control of it rather than letting it control you.
3. Visceral Mobilisation
Endometriosis can create adhesions and restrictions in the organs, which add to your symptoms and lead to additional discomfort. Visceral Mobilisation (5) is the use of gentle, hands-on techniques to:
- Improve mobility of the abdominal and pelvic organs
- Reduce adhesions and scar tissue restrictions
- Enhance circulation to affected tissues
Many of our patients find this approach instantly relieving—it’s like giving your body the space it needs to move freely again.
4. Pelvic Floor Rehabilitation
Research (2) shows that pelvic floor dysfunction is linked to chronic pain and stress. Our techniques include:
- Manual Therapy
- Pelvic Floor Relaxation Exercises
- Biofeedback Training
5. Acupuncture for Pain Relief
Evidence (3) shows that Acupuncture can effectively manage pain. It is used to:
- Stimulate/desensitise nerves and release natural pain-relieving chemicals (endorphins)
- Reduce muscle tension and inflammation
- Improve blood flow to affected areas
For many, this technique provides significant relief and is an excellent complement to other treatments.
6. Exercise and Movement Therapy
We’ll work with you to help you connect with your body and create an exercise plan that feels right for you. This might include:
- Yoga and Pilates-Based Exercises
Strength and Conditioning Workouts
Physiotherapy Benefits:
- Pain relief
- Pelvic floor rehabilitation
- Improved muscle function
- Stress/Pain management
- Education & Self-management
- Post-surgical rehabilitation
- Improved quality of life
Living with Endometriosis can feel like a daily battle, but you don’t have to fight it alone. Through physiotherapy, we can help you manage pain, regain confidence in your body, and reclaim your life. If you’re ready to explore how physiotherapy can support you, we’d love to be part of your journey.
Book a consultation with us today—let’s start this journey together.
By Athina Giralea- Senior Physiotherapist and Specialist in Pelvic Health
References
- Tennfjord, M.K.; Gabrielsen, R.; Tellum, T. Effect of physical activity and exercise on endometriosis-associated symptoms: A systematic review. BMC Womens Health. 2021, 21, 355. link
- Grinberg K, Sela Y, Nissanholtz-Gannot R. New Insights about Chronic Pelvic Pain Syndrome (CPPS). Int J Environ Res Public Health. 2020 Apr 26;17(9):3005. doi: 10.3390/ijerph17093005. PMID: 32357440; PMCID: PMC7246747. Link
- Xiong J, Zhou X, Luo X, Gong X, Jiang L, Luo Q, Zhang S, Jiang C, Pu T, Liu J, Zhang J, Li B, Chi H. Acupuncture therapy on myofascial pain syndrome: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Front Neurol. 2024 May 3;15:1374542. doi: 10.3389/fneur.2024.1374542. PMID: 38765261; PMCID: PMC11100351.
- Wójcik M, Szczepaniak R, Placek K. Physiotherapy Management in Endometriosis. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health. 2022; 19(23):16148. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph192316148
- Wurn, Belinda F; Wurn, Lawrence J; King, Richard C; Heuer, Marvin A; Roscow, Amanda S; Hornberger, Kimberly; Scharf, Eugenia S. Treating Fallopian Tube Occlusion with a Manual Pelvic Physical Therapy. Alternative Therapies in Health and Medicine: Jan/Feb 2008; 14, 1: pg 18