Levator ani syndrome - a case study and literature review.

BACKGROUND

Although anorectal symptoms are a common problem seen in general practice, general practitioners may sometimes encounter patients presenting with anorectal pain without a detectable cause.

OBJECTIVE

This article discusses a case of recurrent anorectal pain in a young woman due to levator ani syndrome, and the current evidence for treatment of levator ani syndrome.

DISCUSSION

Levator ani syndrome usually presents with recurrent or chronic rectal pain without detectable organic pathology. Digital massage, sitz bath, muscle relaxants, electrogalvanic stimulation and biofeedback are the treatment modalities most frequently described in the literature.