Pudendal Neuritis: Can CBD and Cannabis help with the Pelvic Trap?
I was recently suffering from two types of pain in my lower body, my leg and my pelvis. It was so bad that I went to the doctor to get it checked out. You can read about that experience here. Although I did have radiculopathy, I had a particular type: sciatica radiculopathy. That explained the leg pain, but it didn't address the pelvic pain. The pelvic pain actually has a similar mechanism to the sciatica- a nerve being trapped. But in the case of the pelvis it's the pudendal nerve, not the sciatic nerve. Once I figured out what the problem was, it was just a matter of formulating a plan to help try to treat it. In this article, I’ll explain pudendal neuritis- its symptoms, demographics, diagnostic process, and treatment options. I’ll also examine the potential benefits of cannabis and CBD for managing symptoms (which has been a huge help for me), including the best routes of administration. Ok, let’s see if we can help you get some relief from that pain in your hoohah 😉
What Is Pudendal Neuritis?
Pudendal neuritis is a form of peripheral neuropathy affecting the pudendal nerve, which runs through the pelvis and controls sensation and muscle function in the pelvic region. Damage or irritation to this nerve can lead to chronic pain, a condition often referred to as pudendal neuralgia.
Common causes include:
Trauma to the pelvic region.
Prolonged sitting, especially on hard surfaces.
Complications from childbirth.
Certain medical procedures.
How It Presents: Symptoms and Progression
Pudendal neuritis often presents with pelvic pain, burning sensations, numbness, or tingling in areas like the genitals, rectum, or perineum. Symptoms may worsen with sitting and improve when standing or lying down.
In severe cases, individuals may experience difficulty urinating, bowel issues, or or have issues with sexual function. These symptoms can be distressing and significantly impact physical and emotional well-being.
Pearls
Symptoms of pudendal neuritis often worsen during prolonged sitting and can interfere with daily activities.
Untreated pudendal neuritis may lead to chronic pelvic pain and complications affecting bladder and bowel function.
Who Is Affected? Demographic Data
Pudendal neuritis is more commonly diagnosed in women, often due to childbirth-related trauma or gynecological conditions. However, it also affects men, particularly those with a history of cycling or pelvic trauma.
Demographic factors such as age and lifestyle play significant roles. Adults aged 30–60 are most commonly diagnosed. Additionally, occupations requiring prolonged sitting or high-impact sports can increase susceptibility.
Pearls
Pudendal neuritis is more prevalent in women due to pelvic trauma during childbirth.
Cycling is a significant risk factor for pudendal neuritis in men.
Treatment Options: Traditional and Holistic Approaches
Traditional Treatments
The first steps often involve medication such as anti-inflammatory drugs or nerve pain relievers like gabapentin. For more severe cases, corticosteroid injections or nerve blocks may be used. Physical therapy targeting pelvic floor muscles is another essential component.
While effective for some, traditional treatments may not work for everyone. Medications can cause side effects, and invasive procedures like surgery carry risks.
Holistic Treatments
Holistic approaches include pelvic floor physical therapy, yoga, and dietary changes to reduce inflammation. Acupuncture has also been shown to help manage pelvic pain by improving blood flow and reducing nerve irritation.
These therapies are typically low-risk and can complement traditional treatments but often require consistent practice for optimal results.
Pearls
Physical therapy focused on the pelvic floor is a cornerstone of pudendal neuritis management.
Acupuncture and anti-inflammatory diets are effective holistic options for reducing pelvic pain.
Cannabis and CBD: Managing Pudendal Neuritis Symptoms
Cannabis and CBD are gaining recognition for their potential to manage chronic pain and inflammation, making them promising options for pudendal neuritis.
Pain Relief: THC and CBD interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system to modulate pain signals.
Anti-inflammatory Effects: CBD helps reduce inflammation in the pelvic region.
Muscle Relaxation: Cannabis can relax pelvic floor muscles, alleviating tension and discomfort.
Routes of Administration
Topicals: CBD-infused creams and balms provide localized relief for pelvic pain.
Sublingual Oils: Fast-acting and effective, sublingual oils allow for precise dosing.
Capsules: Offer sustained relief but may take longer to work.
Inhalation: Smoking or vaping cannabis provides quick relief, suitable for acute pain flare-ups.
Pearls
CBD topicals are an effective non-invasive option for targeting pelvic pain.
Cannabis’ muscle-relaxing properties can help alleviate tension in the pelvic floor.
Rolling It Up
This has been one of the most painful sets of circumstances- I’ve got a pain in my butt from sciatica and a pain in my you know what from pudendal neuritis ☹️. If you have it, you know that pudendal neuritis is a complex condition that can significantly affect quality of life. Early diagnosis and a combination of traditional and holistic treatments offer the best outcomes. Cannabis and CBD have helped me manage the pain and inflammation, but I’ve also begun a dedicated stretching program and made lifestyle changes like less sitting throughout the workday. The combination of all this has actually made things better 🙂
Advice: If you experience pelvic pain or discomfort, consult a healthcare provider to explore diagnosis and treatment options. Consider incorporating holistic therapies and cannabis-based treatments into your regimen for comprehensive care. As always, if you have any questions please feel free to contact us, we love being able to learn how we can help. And, if you’re interested in purchasing any CBD products, I recommend the products I created to help manage mine and my patients' conditions. 😎
Pearls
Combining traditional and holistic approaches often provides the best relief for pudendal neuritis.
Cannabis and CBD may offer targeted relief for pelvic pain, inflammation, and muscle tension.
