Widespread Pain Hypersensitivity and Lumbopelvic Impairments in Women Diagnosed with Endometriosis

Objective To explore hypersensitivity to pain and musculoskeletal impairments in the lumbopelvic area in women with and without endometriosis. Methods This cross-sectional study included 66 women (41 women with endometriosis and 25 healthy women). Pain and related catastrophizing thoughts were assessed through a numeric rating scale, pressure pain thresholds (PPTs), the slump test, and the Pain Catastrophizing Scale. Lumbopelvic muscles were evaluated through ultrasound imaging, flexor/extensor resistance tests, and the lumbopelvic stability test. Results Women with endometriosis showed increased self-reported intensity of current pelvic pain (CuPP), reduced local PPTs (42.8–64.7% in the affected area, P-value Conclusions The presence of pain sensitization signs and lumbopelvic impairments, more pronounced in patients with stage IV endometriosis and moderate/severe CuPP, warrants the development of rehabilitation interventions targeting pain and lumbopelvic impairments in women with endometriosis.