Causes
As a result of intermittent or chronic pain in the perineum and rectum, levator syndrome is also known as levator ani syndrome. It is unclear what causes levator syndrome, but it is believed to be caused by spasms or tension in the pelvic organ-supporting levator ani muscle. Potential contributing factors include:
-
A muscle spasm is an involuntary contraction of the levator ani muscle.
-
Tension in the pelvic muscles due to chronic tension or overuse.
-
Pelvic Nerve Irritation: An irritation or compression of the nerves in the pelvis.
-
Muscle tension and pain may be aggravated by psychological factors such as stress and anxiety.
Symptoms
Levator syndrome is characterized by pain, which can vary in intensity and duration.
-
An intermittent or persistent pain is one that comes and goes.
-
A deep, aching pain in the rectal or perineal region.
-
Pelvic Pressure or Discomfort: A feeling of pressure or discomfort in the pelvis.
-
Sitting Pain: Increased pain while sitting, which may be relieved by standing or lying down.
Diagnosis
The diagnostic process for levator syndrome includes a thorough evaluation to rule out other possible causes of pelvic pain.
-
Review of symptoms, duration, and possible triggers.
-
Performing a physical examination to determine if there are any muscle spasms or tenderness in the pelvic area.
-
Examine the levator ani muscle for tenderness or tightness with the digital rectal exam.
-
To rule out other conditions, imaging studies such as MRIs and CT scans are performed.
-
Evaluation of other causes of rectal pain, such as hemorrhoids, fissures, or infections.
Treatment
Levator syndrome treatment focuses on reducing pain and managing symptoms. Options include:
-
Pain relievers, muscle relaxants, or antidepressants are used to manage pain and muscle spasms.
-
The purpose of pelvic floor physical therapy is to relax and strengthen the pelvic muscles.
-
Controlling muscle contractions and reducing tension with biofeedback.
-
For muscle spasms, injections of local anesthetics or botulinum toxin (Botox) are used.
-
The application of heat to the affected area relieves pain and relaxes muscles.
-
Stress management, regular exercise, and avoiding prolonged sitting can alleviate symptoms.
Prevention
In order to prevent levator syndrome, one must manage risk factors and maintain healthy habits. Preventive measures include:
-
Reducing stress and muscle tension through techniques such as meditation, yoga, or counseling.
-
Exercise promotes overall muscle health and reduces the risk of muscle spasms.
-
Seats or cushions designed to reduce pressure on the pelvis are ergonomically designed.
-
Consume a diet high in fiber to prevent constipation, which can exacerbate pelvic pain.
-
In order to avoid putting strain on the pelvic muscles, maintain good posture while sitting and standing.
Conclusion
While the exact cause of levator syndrome is not well understood, it is believed to involve a combination of muscle and nerve factors. It is characterized by pelvic pain caused by muscle spasms or tension in the levator ani muscle. There are usually intermittent or constant pains in the rectal and perineal areas, which are often exacerbated by sitting. Treatment is based on pain relief and muscle relaxation in order to rule out other causes of pelvic pain. To maintain pelvic muscle health and reduce the risk of developing levator syndrome, preventive measures include stress management, regular exercise, ergonomic seating, a healthy diet, and proper posture.
