Have you ever experienced bladder leakage, pelvic pain, pressure, or difficulty with bowel movements? Or perhaps you have difficulty controlling your urgency and find yourself running to the toilet. Maybe you just leak a “little bit” when you sneeze or cough. These symptoms are more common than you realize, and they happen to both men and women of all ages.
They can lead to avoidance of social outings or cause you to constantly be on the lookout for the nearest restroom. They may even affect your intimate relationships. You may find that they gain control over your lifestyle or limit your freedom, be that physically or mentally. In either case, the good news is that with the appropriate care, these symptoms can often be evaluated and treated conservatively, resulting in restored confidence and freedom.
What Is the Pelvic Floor?
The pelvic floor is a group of muscles that work alongside each other to create the “floor” of the pelvis. Much like a hammock, it works against gravity to carry and house the bladder, uterus/prostate, and rectum. In this way, it contributes to our bladder and bowel function and, when functioning correctly, prevents unwanted leakage of urine, gas, or stool. And yes, both male and females have a pelvic floor! In addition to providing support, the pelvic floor also provides stability to the spine to maintain posture during rest and activity, as well as helps with sexual function.
Do You Have Pelvic Floor Dysfunction?
Dysfunction occurs when the pelvic floor muscles are not working properly. They may be too tight, too weak, or poorly coordinating. Some common ways that people experience the resulting symptoms include:
- Urinary incontinence: leakage of urine during sneezing, coughing, laughing, jumping, or upon not making it to the bathroom.
- Pelvic Organ Prolapse (POP): may lead to a sensation of pressure, heaviness, bulging, or “falling down.” This condition occurs when the pelvic organs (bladder, uterus, and rectum) drop from their normal position.
- Constipation: difficult bowel movements, which could lead to other complications if untreated.
- Painful intercourse (aka dyspareunia): pelvic floor muscles become sensitive or tight, leading to uncomfortable sexual activity.
- Pregnancy/post-partum care: as posture changes throughout the course of pregnancy, this can contribute to a new onset and variety of symptoms.
Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy
Pelvic floor physical therapy is a personalized, conservative treatment that is a first line of defense for pelvic floor dysfunction. It involves assessing and customizing manual treatment techniques, along with exercise, to meet the individual needs of the patient. This can empower individuals to improve pelvic function, reduce symptoms, and reclaim control. It goes beyond just knowing “how to Kegel.” Additionally, it’s beneficial during pregnancy and postpartum recovery.
Pelvic floor therapy helps to restore function, retrain muscles, and provide strategies for the patient to regain control. Take the first step in restoring your freedom. Call In Motion O.C. Physical Therapy to schedule an appointment.
