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Pelvic Pain Presentation in an Older Adult — Observed Functional Change After a Single Session

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Overview

This example describes observed pain and movement characteristics noted during massage therapy treatment in an elderly individual presenting with pelvic pain and movement limitation.

It reflects one individual presentation during a single session and is provided for educational purposes only.

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Presentation

The patient presented with severe pelvic pain and significant difficulty with basic functional movement.

Reported concerns at presentation

Severe pain associated with standing and weight shifting

Difficulty with transitional movements such as sit-to-stand, turning, and repositioning

Guarding through the pelvic and lower lumbar regions

Heightened sensitivity to touch

Despite practising tai chi daily for 60–90 minutes, the patient continued to experience pain, restriction, and apprehension with movement.

No additional medical history was provided for treatment purposes.

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Treatment Overview

A single 90-minute massage therapy session was provided.

Treatment characteristics

Gentle, non-forceful manual soft-tissue contact

Light, slow pacing directed to the pelvis, lower abdomen, lumbar region, and related tissues

Minimal pressure to avoid provoking guarding

Paced breathing guidance to support relaxation and ease of movement

No deep pressure, stretching, or high-force techniques were used.

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Observations During the Session

During a specific soft-tissue contact, the patient experienced a brief episode of intense pain consistent with the movement-related pain pattern described at intake.

Immediately following this response, the following were observed:

Pelvic pain was no longer reported

Guarding through the pelvic and lumbar tissues decreased

Movement through the pelvis and low back appeared easier

A strong emotional response occurred during treatment.

The therapist provided grounding support within physical scope and recommended follow-up with an appropriate mental-health professional.

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Observations at the End of the Session

By the conclusion of the session, the patient demonstrated:

Pain-free standing

Pain-free weight shifting

Improved gait mechanics

Comfortable, unrestricted transitional movements without visible hesitation or protective behavior

These observations were confirmed through patient report and functional observation.

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Clinical Context

Pelvic pain in older adults may involve both physical and non-physical contributors, including protective movement patterns and heightened sensitivity.

Responses to massage therapy vary and are influenced by individual history, nervous system sensitivity, and broader psychosocial factors.

This example documents observed responses only and does not establish causation or predict outcomes.

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Important Note on Case Examples

This scenario reflects one individual’s presentation and observed response during a single session.

It does not represent typical outcomes and does not guarantee similar results for others.