Pelvic Floor Dysfunction: Why You Should Talk to a Pelvic Pain Specialist About It

Chronic pelvic and abdominal pain can be a symptom of many different things. Pelvic pain often accompanies diagnoses of endometriosis, PCOS, IBS, tailbone pain, constipation and urinary urgency. This can make sitting, going to the bathroom, or being in social settings or at work challenging.

Many of these underlying causes of pelvic and abdominal pain have pelvic floor muscle dysfunction in common. Pelvic floor muscles can be overactive, causing both tension and weakness. Pelvic floor specialists are trained to assess and treat pelvic floor muscles to help alleviate this pain.

Understanding Pelvic Floor Dysfunction

Pelvic floor dysfunction refers to various conditions in which the muscles in the pelvic area fail to work correctly. These muscles support the pelvic organs, including the bladder, rectum and uterus.

Problems arise when these muscles are too weak, tight, or uncoordinated, leading to uncomfortable and sometimes painful symptoms. This common issue is often misdiagnosed because its symptoms overlap with other conditions. Learning about how these muscles function and the signs that something might be wrong is a proactive step toward getting the right help.

The Role of a Pelvic Floor Physical Therapist

A pelvic floor PT is a clinician with extensive training in pelvic floor disorders. They possess a deep understanding of the complexities involved and are equipped with specialized skills to treat these conditions effectively. During your visit, your pelvic PT will complete a full assessment of your abdomen, low back, hips and pelvic floor to determine the cause of your pain and the appropriate treatment plan.

Symptoms and Signs to Watch For

Identifying the signs of pelvic floor dysfunction early can lead to a quicker diagnosis and better outcomes. Common symptoms include persistent pelvic pain, which might feel like a dull ache or a sharp pain in the lower abdomen, back, buttock or genital areas.
This pain might be constant, or it could come and go, potentially worsening during certain activities like standing or sitting for long periods, during sexual activity, or when you’re using the restroom.

Difficulty with bladder and bowel movements is another telltale sign. You might experience increased urgency to urinate, painful urination, or a sensation of incomplete bladder emptying. Conversely, bowel symptoms could include constipation, straining during bowel movements, or a frequent feeling of needing to pass a bowel movement.
For women, another significant symptom to be aware of is pain during intercourse, which can be distressing and affect emotional well-being and relationships.These symptoms are not just physical; they carry emotional and psychological weights, making it imperative to seek help from a pelvic pain specialist.

Treatment Options Available

Once diagnosed, the treatment options for pelvic floor dysfunction are varied and tailored to the individual’s specific needs. Physical therapy is one of the most common and effective treatments. It involves exercises designed to strengthen or relax the pelvic floor muscles, improve coordination, and alleviate pain.

Lifestyle Changes and Home Remedies

In addition to medical treatments, making lifestyle adjustments plays a crucial role in managing pelvic floor dysfunction. Simple changes, such as maintaining a healthy weight, can significantly reduce pressure on the pelvic muscles and alleviate symptoms. Dietary changes are also impactful; managing water and fiber intake can reduce the strain on the pelvic floor. Regular physical activity will often have the biggest impact on improving pelvic pain and pelvic floor function.

Resolve Physical Therapy and Pelvic Floor Dysfunction

At Resolve Physical Therapy, we specialize in treating pelvic floor dysfunction with a comprehensive, patient-centered approach.

We understand the challenges and frustrations associated with this condition and are dedicated to helping our patients achieve lasting relief. Our team of experts develops personalized treatment plans that integrate physical therapy, lifestyle advice, and ongoing support to ensure the best outcomes.

Conclusion

Pelvic floor dysfunction doesn’t have to be a life sentence of discomfort and embarrassment. With the right help from a pelvic pain specialist, recovery is not just a possibility but an expectation. At Resolve Physical Therapy, we understand because we’ve been there. We’ve helped countless individuals reclaim their active lifestyles without pain.

So, if you’re ready to start your journey to recovery, remember that we’re here to help you get back to being active, happy, and pain-free.

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