The precise reason behind pelvic pain for most women can be unidentifiable, irrespective of any examinations or scans. In a few cases, the symptoms are associated with a problem that is often overlooked. Pelvic pain may arise from a pelvic floor muscle condition that can be aided by a particular form of physical therapy known as the pelvic physical therapy.

What are the Pelvic Floor Muscles?

The floor of the pelvis includes multiple layers of muscle and other tissues. These layers stretch like a hammock from the tailbone at the back to the pubic bone in the front. When your pelvic floor muscles are unable to control themselves, it is known as pelvic floor dysfunction.

What are Pelvic Floor Conditions?

The pelvic floor conditions comprise of the following:

• Stress Incontinence,
• Urge Incontinence,
• Overactive bladder,
• Ante-natal Care,
• Post-natal Care,
• Vaginal Collapse,
• Pelvic Pain,
• Fecal Incontinence, and
• Bowel Conditions, such as Constipation.

Why Do the Pelvic Floor Muscles Weaken in Women?

The pelvic floor muscles in women can be weakened due to the following factors:

• Pregnancy and Childbirth;
• Persistent Constipation;
• Repetitive Heavy Lifting;
• A Chronic Cough (Smoker’s Cough, Acute Bronchitis, Asthma, etc.);
• Hormonal Imbalance at;
• Surgery (E.g. Prostate or Episiotomy); Weak Core Muscle Strength; and A Lack of General Fitness.

What is Pelvic Floor Physiotherapy?

In order to maintain the strength of pelvic floor muscles, it becomes important for both women and men of all ages to reap the benefits of pelvic floor physiotherapy and rehabilitate the weakened muscles. It can help not only with the pain but also reduce symptoms of other conditions caused by pelvic floor problems, such as urinary and fecal incontinence, painful intercourse, and sexual dysfunction. Relaxing tapered and compressed muscles can help ease pain in the pelvic floor, just as it would in other muscles in the body.

Although many women might find pelvic physical therapy unusual and offensive, it can be quite effective. The effectiveness of the therapy will always depend on the severity of the case. It can also serve as additional therapy and does not always have to be the only treatment option.

Pelvic Floor Physiotherapy Techniques

Education: A patient should be aware of his/her pelvic anatomy and how different components work alone and together. They should also have knowledge of how their habits and hygiene affect their symptoms.

Pelvic Floor Exercises: Exercises involving contraction and relaxation of pelvic floor muscles in relation to other muscles are a must. Few breathing and timing techniques that make the exercises more effective are also taught. Such exercises can assist them in stretching the constricted muscles, strengthen the weak ones, and improve flexibility.

Manual Therapy: A physical therapist may use hands-on massage or stretching to help with posture, blood circulation, and mobility.

Pelvic floor physical therapy may be part of a treatment plan involving primary care physicians, sex therapists, and mental health professionals.

If you wish to undergo pelvic physical therapy, then we at Prime Physio Plus Physiotherapy Clinic are just a call away!