Why do my testicles hurt?

By Shannon Strauch, PTA, STMT-1 on 7/16/2024

Testicles originate in the abdominal cavity during fetal development and then descend into the scrotum before birth. This descent involves passing through the inguinal canal, a passage in the lower abdominal wall. The process leaves the testicles connected to the abdominal region through various structures, including nerves, blood vessels, and fascial tissues. The testicles are enveloped by layers of fascia, which are continuous with the abdominal fascia. The spermatic cord, which contains blood vessels, nerves, and the vas deferens, is also surrounded by fascial layers as it passes through the inguinal canal.

How Fascial Connections Can Cause Testicular Pain:

1. Tension and Restrictions:

   • Fascial tissues can develop tension and restrictions due to various factors like injury, surgery, or chronic poor posture.

   • Since fascia is a continuous web throughout the body, tension in the abdominal or pelvic fascia can transmit to the testicular region, causing referred pain.

2. Scar Tissue Formation:

   • Surgeries, especially in the abdominal or inguinal regions, can lead to scar tissue formation.

   • Scar tissue can create fascial adhesions, which restrict normal movement and cause tension that can be felt in the testicles.

3. Pelvic Floor Dysfunction:

   • The pelvic floor muscles are interconnected with fascial structures in the pelvis.

   • Dysfunction in these muscles, such as hypertonicity (excessive tension) or trigger points, can pull on fascial tissues and refer pain to the testicles.

4. Nerve Entrapment:

   • The ilioinguinal, genitofemoral, and pudendal nerves, which innervate the testicular region, pass through fascial layers.

   • Fascial restrictions can entrap these nerves, leading to neuropathic pain that radiates to the testicles.

Pelvic Floor Therapy and Testicular Pain

Testicular pain can have several causes, and while pelvic floor therapy may not directly treat all of them, it can help in some cases. Here are some common causes of testicular pain that pelvic floor therapy may address:

• Pelvic Floor Muscle Tension

  : Tight or tense pelvic floor muscles can refer pain to the testicles. Pelvic floor therapy can help relax and release these muscles through techniques like myofascial release and trigger point therapy.

• Post-Surgical Pain

  : After surgeries like inguinal hernia repair, some men experience testicular pain due to nerve irritation or scar tissue. Pelvic floor therapy can assist in managing pain and improving mobility in the pelvic region.

• Chronic Pelvic Pain Syndrome (CPPS)

  : This condition involves long-term pain in the pelvic area, which can sometimes extend to the testicles. Pelvic floor therapy, combined with other treatments, may help alleviate symptoms.

• Musculoskeletal Issues

  : Problems in surrounding muscles, joints, or nerves (like lower back issues) can radiate pain to the testicles. Pelvic floor therapy can address these issues indirectly by improving overall pelvic stability and function.

• Overactive Pelvic Floor

  : In some cases, an overactive pelvic floor can cause pain and discomfort in the testicles. Pelvic floor therapy can help regulate muscle tone and function.

How Pelvic Floor Therapy Can Help

1. Myofascial Release:

   • Techniques to release tension in the pelvic and abdominal fascia can reduce referred pain to the testicles.

2. Scar Tissue Management:

   • Therapy can help mobilize scar tissue and reduce adhesions, improving fascial mobility and decreasing pain.

3. Trigger Point Therapy:

   • Addressing trigger points in the pelvic floor muscles can alleviate referred pain to the testicles.

4. Nerve Mobilization:

   • Gentle techniques to mobilize nerves can relieve entrapment and reduce neuropathic pain.

5. Pelvic Floor Muscle Relaxation:

   • Exercises and techniques to relax and lengthen pelvic floor muscles can decrease tension in the associated fascial tissues, thereby alleviating testicular pain.

If you're experiencing testicular pain, consulting with a healthcare provider is essential for a proper diagnosis. They can determine if pelvic floor therapy is appropriate and tailor a treatment plan to address the specific causes of your pain. Reach out to us at Pelvic Health Center in Madison, NJ to set up an evaluation and treatment! Feel free to call us at 908-443-9880 or email us at receptionmadison@pelvichealthnj.com.

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