What is Pelvic Dysfunction and Pelvic Floor Physiotherapy?
Pelvic floor physiotherapy is the use of internal and external techniques to assess and treat pelvic dysfunction in the supportive structures.
Pelvic dysfunction in these structures could lead to the following conditions:
- Urinary incontinence (leakage)
- Pelvic pain
- Tailbone pain
- Pelvic organ prolapse
- Painful intercourse
- Chronic low back pain
According to research, pelvic floor physiotherapy is the leading line of defence against incontinence and pelvic pain. Most importantly, these conditions can be treated and your pelvic floor physiotherapist can work with you to achieve your goals and enhance your quality of life.
Should I do Kegels?
After childbirth, kegels are often wrongly prescribed as they are NOT for everyone. Pelvic floor dysfunction can be caused by pelvic floor muscles being weak (hypotonicity) OR tight (hypertonicity). In fact, kegels may even worsen pelvic floor problems if they are not done properly or prescribed to the wrong person.
Additionally, kegels are not simply for women following childbirth. Reductions in estrogen levels with menopause also contribute to dysfunction in the pelvic floor and can be improved upon with kegels providing that these exercises are necessary.
A pelvic floor physiotherapist will individualize your care and ensure you are doing the right exercises for the right reasons.
The Evidence: Pelvic Floor Dysfunction and Chronic Low Back Pain
Studies have found a strong correlation between chronic low back pain and pelvic floor dysfunction. In a study done by Dufour and colleagues in 2018, 95% of women with chronic low back pain also presented with pelvic floor dysfunction; tightness and pelvic floor muscle weakness were the most common issues revealed from the study. Core and back strengthening exercises are traditionally used in physiotherapy treatment for chronic low back pain. A study by Bi and colleagues in 2013 showed that patients who did pelvic floor exercises in combination with routine low back pain treatment had significantly better results for pain reduction and disability versus traditional treatment alone.
For more information contact us. Our expert, Nicole Stokes, Pelvic Floor Physiotherapist offer 15 minutes free-consultation.
Mari Mueller, Physiotherapy
