Pelvic Adhesive Disease: Understanding, Diagnosing, and Treating

Pelvic adhesive disease (PAD) is a complex condition characterized by the formation of scar tissue (adhesions) in the pelvic area. These adhesions can bind together organs such as the uterus, ovaries, fallopian tubes, bladder, bowel, and rectum, leading to various complications. At Clear Passage Physical Therapy, we specialize in non-surgical treatments for PAD and related conditions.

What is Pelvic Adhesive Disease?

Pelvic adhesive disease, also known as abdominal adhesions disease, occurs when scar tissue forms in the pelvic region, potentially affecting reproductive and gastrointestinal organs and other pelvic structures. This condition can have significant impacts on one’s health and quality of life.

Causes of Pelvic Adhesive Disease

Several factors can contribute to the development of PAD:

• Previous pelvic surgeries (e.g., endometriosis surgery, C-section, bowel resection)
• Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID)
• Endometriosis (Endometriosis Pain)
• Appendicitis
• Radiation therapy to the pelvis (Pain After Radiation Therapy)

Are pelvic adhesions dangerous?

Pelvic adhesions, while not inherently dangerous in all cases, can pose significant health risks and complications for some individuals. These bands of scar tissue that form in the pelvic area can range from mild to severe, and their potential danger largely depends on their location, extent, and the organs they affect.

In many cases, pelvic adhesions can lead to chronic pelvic pain and frozen pelvis, which can significantly impact a person’s quality of life. They can also cause fertility issues by interfering with the normal function of reproductive organs, potentially blocking fallopian tubes or distorting the anatomy of the uterus or ovaries. More severe complications can arise when adhesions cause bowel obstructions, a potentially life-threatening condition that requires immediate medical attention. Additionally, pelvic adhesions can make subsequent surgeries more challenging and risky, as they can obscure normal anatomical structures and increase the risk of organ injury during surgical procedures. While not all pelvic adhesions are dangerous, their potential to cause serious health issues means they should be taken seriously and monitored by healthcare professionals, especially if symptoms are present.

Symptoms of Pelvic Adhesive Disease

The symptoms of PAD can vary depending on the severity and location of the adhesions. Common symptoms include:

1. Chronic pelvic pain
2. Pain during intercourse (dyspareunia)
3. Infertility
4. Irregular or painful menstrual cycles
5. Pain during bowel movements
6. Urinary problems
7. Abdominal distension
8. Difficulty passing gas

It’s important to note that some individuals with PAD may be asymptomatic. However, if you experience any of these symptoms, it’s crucial to consult a healthcare professional for proper evaluation and treatment.

Diagnosis of Pelvic Adhesive Disease

Diagnosing PAD typically involves:

1. Comprehensive physical examination
2. Pelvic ultrasound
3. Laparoscopy (a minimally invasive surgical procedure to visualize adhesions)

*NOTE: any type of surgery to treat PAD has the potential to increase scar tissues making the symptoms worse over time.

Treatment Options for Pelvic Adhesive Disease

Non-Surgical Treatment: The Clear Passage Approach

At Clear Passage Physical Therapy, we offer a non-surgical, drug-free approach to treating pelvic adhesive disease. Our clinically proven Wurn Technique® is designed to address PAD and its symptoms without the need for invasive procedures.

The Wurn Technique® involves:

• Specialized manual physical therapy
• Targeted soft tissue manipulation
• Individualized treatment plans

This approach aims to break down adhesions, improve organ mobility, and alleviate pain associated with PAD.

Surgical Options

Types of surgical procedures that are done.

• Laparoscopic adhesiolysis: A minimally invasive procedure to cut adhesions
• Open adhesiolysis: A more extensive surgery for severe cases, such as bowel obstruction

*NOTE: any type of surgery to treat PAD has the potential to increase scar tissues making the symptoms worse over time.

Preventing Pelvic Adhesive Disease

While not all cases of PAD can be prevented, certain measures may help reduce the risk:

• Avoiding unnecessary pelvic surgeries
• Prompt treatment of pelvic inflammatory disease and endometriosis
• Careful tissue handling during pelvic surgeries
• Organ mobility exercises after surgery such as gentle stretching

Adhesive Disease Bowel Obstruction

Abdominal adhesions, closely related to PAD, can lead to serious complications such as bowel obstruction. Symptoms of bowel obstruction may include:

• Absence of Bowel Sounds – The absence of bowel sounds indicates underactive or inactive intestines. This means that waste is not being eliminated from the body on time. A buildup in your gastrointestinal tract can result in a life-threatening rupture.
• Nausea and Vomiting – Food and liquids that should be moving forward are moving backward. If this happens often enough, other problems, such as ulcers, gastritis, and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), may be present.
• Stomach Cramps – These are pains that may come and go.
• Diarrhea or Constipation – If the bowel is partially blocked, diarrhea may occur. 
• Abdominal Swelling or Bloating (Distention) – Liquids and gases can build up in the abdomen.
• Pain or Tenderness – The pain is often around or just below the belly button but can be present in other areas.
• Constipation and the Inability to Pass Gas – If the bowel is completely blocked, no material passes. These are signs of a complete blockage, called a total bowel obstruction.

Conclusion

Pelvic adhesive disease is a complex condition that requires professional medical attention. At Clear Passage Physical Therapy, we offer innovative, non-surgical solutions to help manage PAD and its associated symptoms. If you’re experiencing symptoms of PAD or have concerns about adhesions, we encourage you to consult with our experienced team to explore your treatment options.

Remember, while surgery has traditionally been the primary treatment for PAD, our specialized physical therapy techniques provide an alternative that may help you avoid additional surgical procedures and the potential for further adhesion formation. One of our founders, Belinda Wurn, experienced a frozen pelvis from pelvic radiation and was debilitated until she and her husband developed this technique to make her pain-free and functional again. Contact Clear Passage Physical Therapy today to learn more about how we can help you overcome abdominal pain and regain your health naturally.