Pelvic Floor Dysfunction Category

A strong pelvic floor is essential for pretty much everything we need for daily functioning, but it’s one of the most under-discussed topics around. Perhaps some people think talking about the pelvic floor and pelvic floor dysfunction is taboo, but Next Level Physio wants you to know that pelvic floor dysfunction is nothing to be embarrassed about. In fact, almost 24% of women in the U.S. will be affected by pelvic floor disorders at some point in their lives according to the National Institutes of Health. Although the number is lower for men (around 10-15%), it’s still a real possibility. There are many causes for pelvic floor dysfunction, but before we dive into them, it’s important to understand what the condition is and learn more about its symptoms.

What is Pelvic Floor Dysfunction?

Defined as the inability to contract or relax the pelvic floor muscles, pelvic floor dysfunction can affect both men and women. This condition is sometimes painful and sometimes just uncomfortable. Common symptoms of pelvic floor dysfunction include:

  • General pelvic pain
  • Pain during intimacy
  • Bowel/bladder-related pain
  • Lack of sensation in the pelvic floor
  • Constipation
  • Incontinence
  • Urinary leake
  • Rectal problems
  • Prolapse
  • …and more

Reasons for Pelvic Floor Dysfunction

There are many different reasons people may develop pelvic floor dysfunction. Some of the most common conditions that lead to pelvic floor dysfunction include:

  • Pregnancy
  • Menopause
  • Obesity
  • Trauma to the pelvic region (car accidents are common culprits but other injuries like sports injuries may cause it as well)
  • Age
  • Excessive straining during urination or trying to have a bowel movement.
  • Prostate issues
  • Post-prostate surgery recovery
  • Weightlifting
  • …and more

What Happens if You Don’t Treat Pelvic Floor Dysfunction?

It goes without saying that pelvic floor dysfunction is something that should be addressed as soon as possible to prevent additional problems. If left untreated, pelvic floor dysfunction could lead to long term discomfort, long term colon damage, prolapsed organs, problems with the prostate or rectum, long term incontinence, and other issues.

How Do You Treat Pelvic Floor Dysfunction?

The good news is that pelvic floor dysfunction is treatable. Physical therapy is the best method for treating pelvic floor dysfunction, as it helps retrain the muscles in that region and get them back into great shape. Just as you would need to retrain other muscles after something like a sports injury, the pelvic floor requires specific attention as well.

The physical therapists at Next Level Physio are here to guide you through practical exercises to strengthen your pelvic floor. Treating this kind of pain and/or discomfort requires time, patience, and consistency, but we are confident that by working with us, you’ll be able to relieve your pelvic pain and get back to feeling your best.

Contact us today to discuss your symptoms. We’ll help you figure out if you have pelvic floor dysfunction and if you do, how we can help.