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Pelvic floor dysfunction (PFD) is a condition affecting both men and women, characterized by an inability to properly relax and coordinate the muscles of the pelvic floor. This group of muscles supports pelvic organs, such as the bladder, intestines, and, in women, the uterus. When these muscles are too tight, too weak, or lack coordination, it can lead to a range of symptoms including chronic pelvic pain, urinary and fecal incontinence, constipation, and sexual dysfunction. In women, PFD may also cause pain during intercourse and contribute to conditions like pelvic organ prolapse. In men, it can result in prostatitis, erectile dysfunction, and post-void dribbling. Treatment often involves pelvic floor physical therapy, biofeedback, lifestyle changes, and, in some cases, medication or surgery to improve muscle function and alleviate symptoms. Addressing PFD is crucial for enhancing quality of life and overall well-being.
We have completed specialised training to assess, diagnose and treat a wide range of pelvic health conditions.
The pelvic floor is the base of the group of muscles referred to as your ‘core’. These muscles are located in your pelvis and stretch like a hammock from the pubic bone (at the front) to the coccyx or tailbone (at the back) and from side to side.
The pelvic floor muscles work with your deep abdominal (tummy) and deep back muscles and diaphragm to stabilize and support your spine. They also help control the pressure inside your abdomen to deal with the pushing down force when you lift or strain – such as during exercise. They control bowel and bladder function, facilitates sexual appreciation and pump lymphatics to maintain circulation.
Role of Pelvic floor muscles in bowel and bladder function- PFMs need to synergistically contract to allow for you to prevent leakage and relax in a coordinated manner for you to empty your bladder or bowels. If the timing of the muscles is off, it may result in urinary/ bowel incontinence, urinary retention, constipation, pelvic pain.
Keeping these muscles strong is essential for both men and women.
Seeing a pelvic health specialist helps you peel the onion in order to find the cause or causes of your pain. Pelvic pain is often multifactorial. Physical Therapist at LHPT have received additional training on evaluating and treating Pelvic floor muscles.
We utilize functional manual therapy techniques for internal and external assessment and treatment of pelvic floor muscles, connective tissues, other myofascial structures in and around the pelvis, neural, joint and visceral mobilization to address mechanical component of their problem. This is followed by neuromuscular, and motor control training via exercises, biofeedback and awareness training for functional integration. We approach our patient’s pain in an investigative manner, understanding the connection the pelvic girdle and pelvic floor have to the rest of the body.
Our aim is to help you recover from your injury and return to the activities you enjoy. Whether your injury is related to sport, work or daily life we apply the same principles and dynamic approach used in high-end rehabilitation to resolve your problem. Our experience means we know the ropes well and can quickly get to the nub of your problem.
