Osteitis Pubis: Care Instructions

Overview

The pubis is the area where the two pubic bones meet in the front of the pelvis. They are joined by cartilage. Osteitis pubis is a condition caused by stress on this joint. It can cause pain and tenderness right over the pubis. The pain may go into the groin area. It can hurt when you walk.

Osteitis pubis is most common in athletes. It can also happen from surgery, pregnancy, and arthritis.

Many things can cause groin pain. The doctor may use X-rays or other imaging tests to diagnose this condition.

Osteitis pubis will usually get better in time with home care. But it may take a few months. The doctor may recommend physical therapy and exercises to stretch and strengthen your hip muscles. After several weeks and if other treatments haven't helped, your doctor may recommend a steroid shot to help reduce pain and swelling.

It is important to avoid the activity that caused this condition until the pain is gone. If you don't, you may have ongoing pain.

Follow-up care is a key part of your treatment and safety. Be sure to make and go to all appointments, and contact your doctor if you are having problems. It's also a good idea to know your test results and keep a list of the medicines you take.

How can you care for yourself at home?

• Ask your doctor if you can take an over-the-counter pain medicine, such as acetaminophen (Tylenol), ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin), or naproxen (Aleve). Be safe with medicines. Read and follow all instructions on the label.
• Put ice or a cold pack on the area for 10 to 20 minutes at a time. Try to do this every 1 to 2 hours for the next 3 days (when you are awake). Put a thin cloth between the ice and your skin.
• After 2 or 3 days, you can try applying heat to the area that hurts. Apply heat for 10 to 20 minutes at a time, several times a day. Put a thin cloth between the heat and your skin. You might also try switching between ice and heat.
• Do exercises and stretching as directed by your therapist or doctor.
• Return to your usual level of activity slowly. Don't do anything that makes your pain worse.

When should you call for help?

Watch closely for changes in your health, and be sure to contact your doctor if:

• You have new or worse pain.
• You have new symptoms.
• You do not get better as expected.