Client came in for incontinence when coughing/sneezing and jumping who has been doing Kegal’s exercises for months but had no relief. Our team physiotherapist assessed her with thorough history taking and external and internal examination. The client was quite tight with internal palpation of pelvic floor muscles. The physiotherapist guided her for pelvic relaxation and advised her of food that irritates bladder followed by bladder diary to complete.
The client was surprised to see the difference with just education about condition.
So, Pelvic Physiotherapy is not only Kegal’s exercises but much more than it.
Pelvic physiotherapy, also known as pelvic floor physiotherapy, is a specialized branch of physiotherapy that focuses on the assessment and treatment of the pelvic floor muscles. These muscles play a crucial role in various bodily functions, including bladder and bowel control, sexual function, and providing support to vital organs. Pelvic physiotherapy is often overlooked but is gaining recognition as an essential aspect of overall health and well-being.
What if these muscles are too tight or too weak?
This is where pelvic health physiotherapists come in. We are highly trained physiotherapists that are specialized in treating pelvic floor dysfunction. Our practice includes both external and internal physiotherapy.
Why internal you might ask?
There are various pelvic floor muscles which cannot be assessed externally. So, internal palpation will allow physiotherapist to perform thorough assessment after ruling out contraindications.
Why is our pelvic floor important?
It’s imperative that you manage your pelvic floor problems NOW. Just like any other muscle in your body. Use it or lose it!
If you don’t take the time to strengthen your pelvic muscles now, then it could lead to bigger problems like…
- Back pain
- Pelvic organ prolapse
- Urinary Incontinence
- Bowel Incontinence
- Sexual Dysfunction
A strong and connected pelvic floor means:
- You’re able to exercise without pain
- Good control with urinary flow
- Controlled bowel movements
Physiotherapy-Based Strategies to Connect with Your Pelvic Floor
- Diaphragmatic Breathing
Do you usually breathe into your shoulders or your rib cage?
Let’s see…
- Put one hand on your chest, then put the other hand on your stomach.
- Inhale through your nose and exhale through your mouth
Where did you breathe – chest or stomach?
The breathing strategy that is going to benefit you is to breathe into your stomach (or lower rib cage to be exact).
2) Pelvic Posture
How do you naturally stand? More weight on one side than the other? One leg straight and the other with a knee bent.
Let’s consider your pelvic position and rib cage position. Can you stack your rib cage directly over your pelvic while standing on both legs evenly?
Try to grow 2 inches taller.
- Developing awareness of your deep core muscles and finding neutral spine position.
Find a neutral spine by lying on your back with your knees bent and your feet flat on the floor. Do this by tilting your pelvis forward and backward several times, finishing with a small hollow underneath your back, and your front hip bones and pubic bone level (imagine a bowl of water balanced on your belly
So… how important is your pelvic floor?
Pelvic floor is as important as any other area like lower back and knee. It is important to know about it and treat as needed.
If you have any questions and concerns, you can make an appointment with our pelvic floor physiotherapist:
- Call on 604-427-2172 or you can book online at https://belmontphysio.janeapp.com.
FAQ
How would my first appointment look like?
Our first appointment is 60 minutes long.
Before your first appointment, we will send you online forms to complete. Our physiotherapist will take thorough history and after that will perform external and internal examination. Afterwards, they will educate you about conditions, management strategies and treatment options.
Can pelvic floor physiotherapy help with painful intercourse?
Yes! Painful intercourse can stem from a number of issues. Generally speaking pelvic floor muscles are tight with painful intercourse. This could be from stress, your posture, previous birth(s), etc. It’s a good idea to have a full assessment with a pelvic floor physiotherapist to explore your specific situation. Contact us at 604-427-2172. We’d be happy to help.
Pelvic physiotherapy is an essential area of physiotherapy that can help to improve the quality of life of individuals affected by pelvic dysfunction. If you are experiencing pelvic dysfunction, seeking the help of a pelvic physiotherapist can significantly improve your quality of life.
