Pelvic floor dysfunction is a common condition that affects millions of women and men worldwide. It can cause unpleasant symptoms such as urinary incontinence, pelvic pain and sexual dysfunction. Fortunately, there’s hope for those suffering from pelvic floor dysfunction. Physiotherapists with pelvic health expertise have helped many patients restore their pelvic floor muscles and alleviate their symptoms. In this blog post, we’ll discuss the pelvic floor, causes of dysfunction and how physiotherapy can help restore it.
What is the Pelvic Floor?
The pelvic floor is a group of muscles that support the pelvic organs such as the bladder, uterus and rectum. These muscles also contribute to sexual function, bowel function and stability of the hips. These muscles can weaken causing pelvic floor dysfunction. Pelvic floor dysfunction is a common condition in women after childbirth and in menopause. It can also affect men due to prostate surgery, aging, and other factors.
Causes of Pelvic Floor Dysfunction
Many factors can contribute to pelvic floor dysfunction, which include but not limited to pregnancy and childbirth, obesity, chronic constipation, chronic cough or sneeze, surgery, aging, and nerve damage. Women with a history of pelvic floor dysfunction in their family also have a greater risk.
Physiotherapy as a Treatment
Pelvic floor physiotherapy is the first-line treatment for pelvic floor dysfunction, and it has been proven to be very effective. After an initial assessment, a physiotherapist will tailor an exercise program that aims to strengthen and train the pelvic floor muscles. These exercises can be done at home and as part of a supervised program to ensure proper form and progression. Other treatment options include biofeedback, electrical stimulation, and manual therapy.
Benefits of Pelvic Floor Physiotherapy
Pelvic floor physiotherapy has many benefits, including improved bladder and bowel function, reduced pain during sex, decreased pelvic pain, and improved quality of life. In many cases, pelvic floor physiotherapy can restore normal pelvic floor function and alleviate symptoms without medication or surgery.
Pelvic floor dysfunction is a common condition that affects many people worldwide and can cause unpleasant symptoms such as urinary incontinence, pelvic pain, and sexual dysfunction. However, there’s hope for those suffering from pelvic floor dysfunction. Pelvic floor physiotherapy is a safe and effective treatment that can restore normal pelvic floor function and alleviate symptoms. If you’re experiencing pelvic floor dysfunction, speak to your doctor or contact a physiotherapist specializing in pelvic health.
