Strengthening from Within: How Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy Relieves Pain
Discover How Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy for Pain Relief Can Work For You
Pelvic floor disorders affect both women and men, but many people choose to brush it under the rug. Studies show that nearly 50% of people with pelvic floor disorders suffer from their symptoms and pain for 1 – 5 years before seeking treatment. Pelvic floor physical therapy for pain relief offers a natural and supportive treatment method for strengthening the pelvic floor, reducing pain, and improving overall well-being.
Whether you are experiencing urinary incontinence, have a prolapse during postpartum recovery, or are an avid runner side-lined by chronic pelvic pain, we have treatment options tailored to your specific needs. At Sternen Physical Therapy, we take pride in providing treatment in a comfortable and supportive environment so you can get back to living your best life pain-free.
Continue reading to learn more about pelvic floor disorder and how our physical therapists can help you.
Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy for Pain Relief
What Is The Pelvic Floor?
The pelvic floor is a complex structure of muscles, ligaments, and connective tissues that span the bottom of the pelvis. Its primary function is to support the pelvic organs, including the bladder, intestines, uterus (in females), and rectum, for proper position and function.
Pelvic floor physical therapy (PFPT) is a specialized form of physical therapy that focuses on strengthening and restoring the pelvic floor’s function. The muscles, ligaments, and connective tissues support the pelvic organs, aiding in bladder and bowel control, and contribute to sexual function.
PFPT is not just for women; men face pelvic floor disorders and complications, too. The health and function of the pelvic floor are vital for overall well-being but are often overlooked until problems or pain arise. Risk factors and causes of pelvic pain include:
- Childbirth
- Aging
- Surgery
- Pressure on the Pelvic floor (i.e., Heavy lifting, chronic coughing, chronic constipation)
- Obesity
Pelvic floor therapy for pain relief and function is particularly effective in treating a range of conditions, like:
- Incontinence (urinary or fecal)
- Constipation or bowel disorders
- Pelvic organ prolapse
- Chronic pelvic pain
- Postpartum recovery
- Pain during intercourse
PFPT Treatments for Common Conditions
Urinary Incontinence
Urinary incontinence is the involuntary leakage of urine, indicating a loss of bladder control that affects daily activities of life. For this condition, PFPT focuses on improving the patient’s ability to contract and relax their pelvic floor muscles. We may also incorporate bladder training techniques to gradually increase the interval between bathroom breaks to improve bladder capacity and control.
Chronic Pelvic Pain
Pelvic pain is generally felt in the lower abdomen, pelvis, or perineum, and it becomes chronic when it is felt for 12 weeks or more. It can lead to:
- Difficulty sitting or standing for long periods of time
- Limitations moving the hips and lower back
- Interruptions when walking, sleeping, or regular daily activities
We use a combination of education and targeted exercises to treat this condition. By learning how to identify affected pelvic floor muscles, patients can focus on proper use and care to prevent injury or pelvic pain from returning.
Pelvic Organ Prolapse
This is a condition where one or more of the pelvic organs drops (prolapse) from its normal place in the lower belly and pushes against the walls of the vagina. This happens when the muscles and tissues supporting the pelvic organs become weak or loose. PFPT treatment focuses on targeted exercises, like short holds and long holds, to strengthen the pelvic muscles using contract and release techniques.
Education is an essential part of rehabilitation for PFPT. We work with our patients on at-home exercises and monitoring that complements the work we do inside the clinic.
We’re Here to Help
Our team is specially trained in pelvic floor physical therapy and has the experience you need for improvement. At your first visit, we’ll discuss your medical history and existing condition and create a treatment program that addresses your specific and overall goals for relief.
Contact us today to take the first step toward renewed well-being.