Pelvic floor dysfunction – a common condition characterized by improper coordination of the pelvic floor muscles may occur in men and women. People with pelvic floor dysfunction may make regular trips to the toilet and experience constipation. These are but a few symptoms of pelvic floor dysfunction. While the causes of this condition remain unknown, factors such as age and pregnancy may put you at risk of developing pelvic floor dysfunction. Fortunately, if you have this medical condition, your specialist may recommend pelvic floor therapy in Boca Raton to strengthen the pelvic muscles.
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What is pelvic floor therapy?
This is a form of treatment that helps reduce pain and improve pelvic muscle strength.
Like any other treatment method, the initial consultation is essential to learn more about the treatment process – what it entails, and if you are a good candidate. Your specialist may review your medical gynecologic and obstetric history. Part of pelvic floor therapy includes orthopedic examination, which involves assessment of your muscles. Your therapist may ask you to stand, sit and walk to check if you have any joint issues contributing to your condition. This is important to help customize an appropriate treatment plan for you. The type of therapy your specialist may recommend also depends on the symptoms you may have.
Risk factors for pelvic floor dysfunction
- Increased abdominal pressure caused by chronic coughing contributes to pelvic organ prolapse in women by straining the pelvic floor muscles and weakening the supporting ligaments.
- Athletes who engage in high-impact sporting activities such as gymnastics and running have a higher pelvic floor dysfunction risk. These activities involve intense stretching of the pelvic floor muscles, causing abdominal pressure. The pelvic floor muscles get weak when this goes on for a long time. Non-athletes and people who participate in low-impact sports such as table tennis have lower chances for pelvic floor dysfunction.
- Obesity. Excess body weight increases intra-abdominal pressure, weakens the pelvic floor muscles, and damages the supportive structures. Most people who are overweight also experience urinary incontinence symptoms. Losing excess weight and maintaining a healthy Body Mass Index (BMI) may help improve symptoms such as the frequent need to urinate.
Techniques used in pelvic floor therapy
Pelvic floor therapy techniques involve both internal and external treatment. However, since internal treatment may be uncomfortable for some patients, your therapist may only use this treatment method when you are ready. For internal techniques, your specialist does a trigger point using special instruments or may also guide a finger through the rectum or vagina and applying pressure at particular points. Internal treatment includes deep tissue massage, trigger point therapy, nerve release, skin rolling, and joint mobilization. The various techniques in pelvic floor therapy include electrical stimulation, vaginal dilators, pelvic floor biofeedback, manual therapy, and pelvic floor exercises.
While pelvic floor therapy may be uncomfortable, most patients enjoy an improved quality of life after this treatment approach. If you have pelvic floor dysfunction symptoms such as constipation and pain during sexual intercourse, visit your doctor at MyDoc Women’s Health Specialist for treatment to enhance your well-being.