The pelvic region includes many bony structures, as well as muscles, tendons, ligaments and cartilage. One cartilage, called the pubic symphysis, is located at the point where the two main pelvic bones meet. Several muscles also attach to the bone in this location, and these muscles can pull forcefully against the bone during exercise. When running, weight lifting or other types of exercise get too vigorous, inflammation and injury can occur, including damage to the bone itself.
The typical symptom of osteitis pubis is pain and tenderness in the front and center of the pubic area, but pain can also radiate throughout the groin area. Many people are able to heal by following a carefully designed rehabilitation regimen. Treatment includes muscle strengthening combined with avoidance of any activity that causes pain. Injections can also be used, with surgery being recommended in less than 10% of these cases.
