Question
What can you tell me about a type of arthritis called osteitis pubis?
Answer
Osteitis pubis is an uncommon and often painful inflammatory condition affecting the symphysis pubis — the joint between the pubic bones of the pelvis. Causes include:
- Bone infection (osteomyelitis), usually following pelvic surgery
- Pelvic trauma or surgery
- Sports-related injury or overuse
- Spondyloarthropathies (spondyloarthritis), a group of inflammatory conditions
Signs and symptoms of osteitis pubis may include:
- Pain in the lower abdomen or groin, inner thigh, testicles or hips
- Tenderness at the symphysis pubis
A doctor can make a diagnosis of osteitis pubis by:
- Blood tests, which show an elevated sedimentation rate or C-reactive protein
- Needle biopsy
- Pelvic X-rays
- Bone scan
- MRI
Treatment may include:
- Rest, if related to sports injury or overuse
- Antibiotics, if an infection is present
- Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or pain relievers
- Physical therapy
- Surgery
Last Updated: 01/17/2006