The pelvic floor is made up of muscle, ligaments and connective tissues that act as stabilizers to the pelvis and play a major role in core stabilization. They are like a sling to support the pelvic and abdominal organs, aide in bowel and bladder function and have a role in sexual function. Like any other major muscle group, the pelvic floor can experience dysfunction due to many contributing factors such as muscle weakness, muscle overactivity, improper muscle coordination/timing, muscle imbalances, scar tissue, and joint laxity. Pelvic floor dysfunction can lead to conditions including pelvic pain, bowel/bladder incontinence, increased bladder frequency, and constipation.
A common misconception is that pelvic floor rehabilitation only consists of Kegel muscle exercises. Kegel exercises are only a small piece of pelvic floor rehabilitation and in some circumstances are contraindicated in pelvic floor dysfunction recovery. Pelvic floor physical therapy uses patient specific interventions to individually address each patient’s specific needs.
Pelvic floor dysfunction is common, affecting one third of all women. Because pelvic floor dysfunction is common there is a misconception that it is ‘normal’. Pelvic floor dysfunction is not ‘normal’ and physical therapy is an option for treatment. Participation in a physical therapy program can help to improve quality of life by giving a person back control over their bowel and bladder function. Physical therapy can potentially prevent the need for surgical procedures, decrease pain, and aide in the return to everyday activities.
