The pelvic floor plays a vital role in supporting various bodily functions and organs. When the pelvic floor becomes dysfunctional, it can lead to a range of symptoms and negatively impact quality of life. Seeking professional help can be instrumental in addressing these issues and restoring optimal pelvic floor function.
What Is The Pelvic Floor?
The pelvic floor refers to a group of muscles, ligaments, and connective tissues that form a supportive hammock-like structure at the base of the pelvis. It plays a crucial role in supporting various organs, including the bladder, uterus, and rectum. The pelvic floor muscles span from the pubic bone to the tailbone and from one sitting bone to the other, providing essential support to the pelvic organs.
Why The Pelvic Floor Is Important
The pelvic floor is vital for several reasons. It helps maintain continence by supporting the bladder and bowels. Strong and coordinated pelvic floor muscles help with preventing urinary or bowel leakage.
Additionally, the pelvic floor also plays a role in maintaining proper posture and core stability. It works in conjunction with the deep core muscles to provide a stable base for the spine and pelvis, promoting good posture and helping to prevent lower back pain. Pelvic floor health also plays a role in sexual function, pregnancy, and supporting the pelvic organs.
What Happens When The Pelvic Floor Becomes Dysfunctional?
When the pelvic floor becomes dysfunctional, it can lead to a range of problems. For example, weak or tight pelvic floor muscles can cause urinary incontinence, where patients experience involuntary leakage of urine. Pelvic floor dysfunction can also result in bowel issues, such as faecal incontinence or constipation.
Pelvic floor dysfunction can also contribute to pelvic organ prolapse. This occurs when the pelvic organs descend from their normal position, causing discomfort and a feeling of heaviness. Pelvic floor dysfunction can also cause pain during sexual intercourse.
Symptoms Of Pelvic Floor Dysfunction
The symptoms of pelvic floor dysfunction can vary depending on the individual and the underlying cause. Some common signs include:
- Urinary urgency or frequency
- Involuntary loss of urine during activities such as coughing or sneezing
- Difficulty starting or stopping urine flow
- Pain or discomfort in the pelvic region
- Painful sexual intercourse
- Constipation or difficulty emptying the bowels
- Sensation of a bulge or pressure in the pelvis
Pelvic Floor Physiotherapy At Evoker
Pelvic floor physiotherapy is a specialized form of physical therapy that focuses on assessing and treating pelvic floor dysfunction. At Evoker, our experienced pelvic floor physiotherapists work closely with patients to address their specific concerns and develop personalized treatment plans.
The physiotherapy sessions typically involve a comprehensive assessment of the pelvic floor muscles and their functionality. Treatment may include exercises to strengthen or relax the pelvic floor muscles, biofeedback techniques to improve muscle coordination, and education on proper bladder and bowel habits.
Pelvic floor physiotherapy at Evoker aims to restore optimal pelvic floor function, alleviate symptoms, and improve overall quality of life. Our compassionate team provides a safe and comfortable environment for individuals seeking help with pelvic floor issues.
References
Better Health. Pelvic Floor. Available from: https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/conditionsandtreatments/pelvic-floor
Physiopedia. Pelvic Floor. Available from: https://www.physio-pedia.com/Pelvic_Floor_Dysfunction
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