What is the Pelvic Floor?

The pelvic floor refers to a group of muscles, ligaments, and tissues that form a supportive structure at the bottom of the pelvis. It plays a crucial role in supporting the organs within the pelvic area, including the bladder, uterus, and rectum. The pelvic floor muscles also have a role in controlling urinary and bowel functions, as well as sexual function.

Who Can Benefit from Pelvic Floor Physiotherapy?

Pelvic floor dysfunction may affect people of all genders and ages, and as a result they can benefit from physiotherapy treatments. Here are some examples of how pelvic floor dysfunction may occur in certain groups of people.

• Prenatal and Postpartum
  This is one of the most common times where pelvic floor concerns arise. During and after pregnancy, women’s bodies go through many physical and hormonal changes in a short period of time. Individuals might experience pain around their low back, tailbone, pelvis, and hip and symptoms such as incontinence, urgency, and pain during sexual intercourse. These are all symptoms that can be improved with Pelvic Floor Physiotherapy.
  

• Post menopause
  When going through menopause women’s estrogen levels will decrease significantly. It Estrogen is important in maintaining optimal function in the pelvic floor region. Consequently, lower oestrogen levels may cause symptoms such as heaviness/bulging, incontinence, increased urgency and frequency, and pelvic pain.
  

• Men
  While any male can experience pelvic floor symptoms, the most common causes of pelvic floor dysfunction with men include chronic pelvic pain, chronic prostatitis, post surgical, and post prostatectomy. Common symptoms that men may be experiencing include the feeling of incomplete bladder or bowel emptying, slow/weak stream, incontinence, pelvic pain, and erectile dysfunction.
  

• Post-surgery rehabilitation
  After undergoing an abdominal or pelvic surgery it is common to experience pelvic floor concerns. This may be due to the surgical procedure itself or due to prolonged catheterization. Commonly, post surgery physiotherapy treatment will work towards decreasing pain, improving scar mobilisation

Causes of Pelvic Floor Issues

Several factors can contribute to pelvic floor dysfunction, including:

• Pregnancy and childbirth

• Hormonal changes during menopause

• Chronic constipation or straining during bowel movements

• Obesity or excessive weight

• Certain medical conditions or surgeries affecting the pelvic area

• High-impact activities or sports

• Aging and natural weakening of the pelvic floor muscles

Physiotherapy Treatments for Pelvic Floor Dysfunction

At Prohealth Sports and Spinal, our physiotherapists employ evidence-based techniques to effectively manage and treat pelvic floor dysfunction. Our comprehensive treatment approach includes:

Assessment & Diagnosis

Our skilled physiotherapists will conduct a thorough assessment to evaluate your pelvic floor function and identify any specific issues or imbalances. This may involve a combination of physical examinations, medical history review, and specialised physiotherapy tests if necessary.

Physiotherapy Treatments

Based on the assessment findings, our physiotherapists will develop a personalised treatment plan tailored to your needs. Treatment options may include:

• Pelvic floor muscle exercises (Kegel exercises) to improve strength, coordination, and control of the pelvic floor muscles.

• Manual therapy techniques to release tension and improve muscle function.

• Biofeedback therapy to provide real-time feedback on pelvic floor muscle activity.

• Education and lifestyle modifications to promote healthy habits and optimize pelvic floor function.

• Electrical stimulation to aid in muscle retraining and relaxation.

• Relaxation techniques and breathing exercises to reduce muscle tension and promote relaxation of the pelvic floor.

• Postural and movement retraining to improve overall pelvic alignment and function.

Book a Session today

Need more information or assistance? Book a session with our physiotherapists or speak to a member our team today.