Endometriosis is a condition that causes pelvic pain and infertility. It happens when the uterine lining sheds during menstruation and end up inside the body cavity. Then with each menstrual cycle, these lining cells bleed and cause pain and adhesions. These endometrial growths may end up in the fallopian tubes, bladder, rectum, bowels leading to pain, infertility, severe cramps, heavy menstrual bleeding, constipation, pain during or after intercourse, and other issues.
Chronic fatigue is a sense of debilitating fatigue and lethargy that lasts for a long period of time. It feels similar to having the “flu” in that it causes extreme tiredness and muscle soreness. It is a symptom of a variety of conditions including: Chronic fatigue syndrome, fibromyalgia, depression, cancer, multiple sclerosis, irritable bowel syndrome, lyme disease
Physical therapy can help with endometriosis by doing “hands on” therapy to help manage the adhesions leading to pain and blockage of the intestines and bowel. With chronic fatigue, such as in fibromyalgia, PT can help work with the patient to establish a beneficial exercise program without overdoing it. People with chronic fatigue can’t simply “just exercise” with recommendations that are given to normal people. A PT knows how to work with this population to get benefits while managing the difficulties. Sleep is enhanced by proper exercise routines and stress management, all of which a PT can assist with education and establishing proper routines.
Here are a few of my past posts related to these issues.
Fibromyalgia and chronic fatigue think tank
Possibile risk factors for fibromyalgia
West Virginians don't get enough sleep
For more information on these awareness topics:
National Endometriosis Awareness Month: http://www.endocenter.org/
National Chronic Fatigue Awareness Month: http://www.ncfsfa.org/
National Sleep Awareness Week March 3-10: http://www.sleepfoundation.org/event/national-sleep-awareness-week