Osteitis pubis is an injury to the symphysis pubis, commonly seen in athletes and pregnant women. Symptoms include tenderness, shooting pains, and swelling in the groin region. Treatment includes rest, anti-inflammatory medication, physical therapy, and surgery for severe cases.
Osteitis pubis is an acute or chronic injury to the small joint in the center of the pelvis, known as the symphysis pubis. The condition is most commonly seen in athletes who play contact sports, although it can also affect pregnant women and older people with weakened joints. An inflamed symphysis pubis is likely to cause local tenderness and shooting pains that radiate throughout the groin and abdominal region. In most cases, osteitis pubis can be overcome in about three months with rest, anti-inflammatory medications, and follow-up physical therapy. Serious injuries may require surgery to repair severely damaged joints.
The symphysis pubis is a tight, cartilage-filled joint that helps stabilize the pelvis during activity. The joint can become acutely inflamed if the pelvis takes a direct blow, or it can gradually deteriorate from frequent overuse. Football, hockey and rug players are especially prone to direct injury from high impact tackles and falls. Athletes who play sports in which intense running, jumping, kicking and stopping are common are at a higher risk of developing chronic osteitis pubis.
Common symptoms of osteitis pubis include swelling and tenderness in the groin region. Sharp, shooting pains and dull aches envelop the abdomen, groin and genitals. An athlete who is developing a chronic condition is likely to notice worsening pain during and after physical activity. In severe cases, the symptoms can be severe enough to make walking very uncomfortable or impossible. Even minor pains should be reported to a doctor or trainer so that a proper diagnosis can be made.
A doctor who suspects osteitis pubis may do a series of diagnostic imaging tests to check for signs of inflammation of the symphysis pubis. MRI and computed tomography are also used to make sure that the surrounding bones, ligaments, and pieces of cartilage tissue are not damaged. Blood tests may be done to rule out viral infections and other possible causes of inflammation.
Mild cases of osteitis pubis can usually be relieved by avoiding physical activity for several days, regularly icing the joint, and taking anti-inflammatory medications. A doctor can inject a corticosteroid solution directly into the symphysis pubis if the pain is debilitating. Once the joint begins to feel better, a patient can engage in light stretching and strengthening exercises to complete the recovery phase. Surgery is reserved for recurrent or particularly severe cases of osteitis pubis. A patient undergoing an operation can expect to spend several months in physical therapy before being able to return to normal activity.
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