Pelvic Floor

pelvic floor physical therapy

about the pelvic floor

For many women, the pelvic floor is somewhat of a mystery, something that is out of sight and out of mind; that is, until it begins to not work quite as it should. The pelvic floor is comprised of a group of muscles that spread across the bottom of the pelvic cavity like a hammock. It services four primary functions:

• To support the pelvic organs (the uterus, bladder and rectum)

• To help provide sphincteric control for the urethra and rectum

• To withstand increases in pressure that occur with cough, sneeze or strain

• To enhance the sexual response

pelvic floor dysfunction

Pelvic floor dysfunction generally falls into two categories:

• The Overactive Pelvic Floor - Symptoms include painful intercourse, painful urination, functional constipation and vulvar pain.

• The Underactive Pelvic Floor - Symptoms include urinary/fecal leakage, urinary urgency, frequent urination and pressure in the pelvic floor.

Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy

Pelvic Floor Physical Therapists specifically assess the function of the pelvic floor muscles and the surrounding joints, tendons, ligaments and nervous system. The evaluation of the pelvic floor involves both an external and internal examination to assess muscular strength, endurance, function and neuromuscular control. Digital palpation of the pelvic floor will also allow the therapist to determine if myofascial trigger points are present, if overactive or underactive muscles exist and if there are mobility restrictions limiting the function of the pelvic floor.

Goals of Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy include, but are not limited to, reducing pain and/or heaviness, reducing leakage, increasing strength, increasing patient knowledge and awareness of how the pelvic floor functions, and improving the overall function of the pelvic floor muscles.