Abstract
Persistent pelvic pain conditions are common and affect nearly 25% of the female U.S.
population. In a sizable proportion of pelvic pain patients, the pain is caused by
musculoskeletal dysfunction; yet, healthcare providers do not routinely evaluate patients
for musculoskeletal etiologies. This article provides an overview of the pathophysiology
of persistent pelvic pain, as it relates to musculoskeletal disorders. The symptomatology,
anatomy, evaluation, and treatment of these disorders are summarized specifically
for healthcare providers (including gynecologists) who do not have pelvic musculoskeletal
expertise.
Keywords
chronic pelvic pain - pelvic pain - musculoskeletal pain - myofascial
