7800 Wolf Trail Cove, Germantown, TN 38138 • (901) 682-9222 • Open Weekdays 8:00 - 5:00
CENTER FOR PELVIC PAIN MANAGEMENT
Pelvic pain in women is one of the most frequently encountered problems in the typical practice of obstetrics and gynecology. It presents a challenge for the patient, her family, and her co-workers, as well as the physicians involved in her care. In the past, pelvic pain in women has been treated solely as a gynecologic problem. As a result, traditional treatments and surgeries directed at the female reproductive organs have been utilized first, prior to consideration of other approaches to managing the pain. It was only after all gynecologic approaches had been exhausted that a more multidisciplinary approach has been taken.
In our Center for Pelvic Pain Management, it is our goal to address all issues that the patient with pelvic pain may have — be they gynecologic or not. From the very beginning, our goal is to determine both the cause(s) of pain as well as the best way to treat and manage it. Sometimes the response is rapid and permanent, while in other cases the response comes more slowly and may have a variable course. Regardless, our personnel is dedicated to working with the patient in an individualized manner to identify what works best for her.
Our Goal
In a perfect world, every patient with pain will be totally cured permanently. Realistically, however, both the patients and our personnel must understand that there are cases in which the cause of pain and/or an ideal treatment is not found. Regardless, we pledge to continue to work with you, the patient, to do whatever we can in the diagnosis and treatment of your pain and to improve your quality of life. It is a lofty goal, but one to which we are dedicated.
Surgery
Surgery for pelvic pain has been an effective tool in many cases. It is not always the answer, but can be used both as a diagnostic tool (try to find out what is causing the pain) as well as a therapeutic method (treat/cure the problem). For some patients, surgery may be recommended by someone else, and our Center can provide a "second opinion" about the necessity of the surgery proposed. For other patients, we perform surgery that is designed to fit into a broader therapy, which might include medicine, counseling, and other treatments. In some cases, surgery is not necessary at all.
Medicine
Because the causes of pelvic pain are many, the types of medications that are used are, by necessity, wide-ranging also. Our use of medications is always based on the individualized needs of each patient. Hormones sometimes are an important part of the treatment, as are medications to treat each disorder that might cause pain that is felt in the pelvic region. Some patients may require pain medications. In keeping with the philosophy of the Center, each patient's needs are determined individually and appropriate use of pain medications are monitored carefully.
Other Treatments
At our Center, every attempt is made to include any treatment method that might be of help to the patient. This might include counseling, physical therapy, and other treatments that expand our ability to help each patient. Healthcare providers from outside the Center may be involved with the management of some patients to maximize the effectiveness of our team approach.
Research and Clinical Trials
Our physicians are continually doing research in the area of pelvic pain and have already published widely on the subject. In addition, they are invited to speak on the topic to audiences around the country. They have provided consultations to other physicians and their patients for 25 years with referrals literally coming from areas throughout the United States.
7800 Wolf Trail Cove, Germantown, TN 38138
Phone: (901) 682-9222; Fax: (901) 682-9505
