Where is the Pudendal nerve and what happens if it’s compressed?
The Pudendal nerve originates from the spine and branches off in the pelvic region. It sends signals to the pelvic floor telling it when to contract. The pudendal nerve gives function to the pelvic floor musculature and sensation to this area in around the sit bones, the clitoral area in a female, the penis in a male and all in and around the rectal area.
The function of the pelvic floor musculature is to control:
Urination
In a female intercourse
Male and females ability to have bowel movements in addition to holding bowl movements back.
What would I feel is I had issues with the pudendal nerve?
Pain in the area
Significant spasming
Loss of sensation
Weakness of this which can cause incontinence issues (bowel)
Weakness in and around the vaginal area
In males can contribute to erectile dysfunction (especially if associated with pain too)
Compression to the pudendal nerve can be very painful, particularly if frequently irritated. Cyclists often suffer from this due to the contact points on their saddle. Nerves are very pain sensitive, and take a long time to heal. Once irritated, without allowing sufficient healing time, the nerve can repeatedly cause pain for cyclists (particularly longer distance).
Cranbrook Chiropractor Karen is a keen cyclist and works with many sports people suffering from pelvic pain, back pain and other conditions linked to the musculoskeletal system.
To book your Chiropractic treatment in Cranbrook near Rockbeare and Broadclyst book online, call 01392 984959 or email us info@khchiropractic.com
