Pelvic floor health is crucial for the well-being of both men and women, but it is often neglected. The pelvic floor is a group of muscles and tissues which support the organs in the pelvis, including the bladder, uterus (in women), prostate (in men), and rectum. An imbalance in these muscles—whether too tight or weak—can lead to various symptoms affecting daily life and physical performance. Pelvic floor physiotherapy in Edmonton can help address these imbalances, improving overall pelvic health and quality of life.
What Is Pelvic Floor Imbalance?
Pelvic floor imbalance occurs when the pelvic floor muscles become too weak or tight. A healthy pelvic floor allows for proper support, control of bladder and bowel functions, sexual function, and core stability. However, when these muscles are imbalanced, they can lead to dysfunctions that affect quality of life.
Signs of Pelvic Floor Imbalance
While many people are familiar with common pelvic floor issues like urinary incontinence or pain during sex, there are other, less recognized symptoms of pelvic floor imbalance:
- Chronic Low Back or Pelvic Pain
Pelvic floor dysfunction can manifest as chronic pain in the lower back, pelvis, or hips. This can be due to tight pelvic muscles or a misalignment caused by weak pelvic support.
- Frequent or Urgent Need to Urinate
A sense of urgency or frequent urination can indicate pelvic floor imbalance. Overactive pelvic muscles or spasms may cause the bladder to feel constantly full, triggering frequent trips to the bathroom.
- Constipation or Difficulty Emptying Bowels
If the pelvic floor weakens, the muscles responsible for bowel movements may not function effectively. This leads to constipation or incomplete bowel emptying.
- Painful Intercourse (Dyspareunia)
A tight pelvic floor can cause pain during sexual activity due to muscular tension around the vaginal canal or penis. Women with pelvic floor dysfunction may experience this more often.
- Pelvic Organ Prolapse Symptoms
Prolapse symptoms may occur when the pelvic organs (such as the bladder, uterus, or rectum) descend into the vaginal wall due to weak pelvic muscles. Symptoms can include a sensation of pressure, heaviness, or a bulging feeling in the vagina.
- Abdominal Distension and Weak Core
An imbalance in the pelvic floor can lead to a weakened core, affecting the abdominal muscles’ ability to stabilize the trunk, leading to bloating or a protruding abdomen.
- Urinary Incontinence Without Triggering Factors
Urinary leakage during activities such as coughing and sneezing may indicate pelvic floor dysfunction. It often results from weakened pelvic muscles that cannot correctly support the bladder.
- Tightness in the Groin or Hip Flexors
In some cases, pelvic floor muscle imbalances may present as tightness or discomfort in the groin or hip flexors, often misinterpreted as a hip injury.
Causes of Pelvic Floor Imbalance
Pelvic floor imbalances can be caused by various factors, including:
- Pregnancy and Childbirth: The strain of carrying and delivering a baby can weaken or overstretch pelvic floor muscles.
- Surgery: Surgeries, especially those in the pelvic region, may affect the strength and function of the pelvic floor.
- Aging: As people age, the pelvic floor muscles may naturally weaken, leading to imbalances.
- Chronic Straining: Constipation, heavy lifting, or repetitive physical activities can strain the pelvic floor.
- Trauma or Injury: Pelvic injuries, including falls or accidents, can disrupt pelvic floor function.
- Obesity: Increased body weight places added pressure on the pelvic floor muscles, leading to dysfunction.
How to Fix Pelvic Floor Imbalance with Physiotherapy
Addressing pelvic floor dysfunction requires a holistic, tailored approach. Here are effective strategies that physiotherapists use to restore balance through pelvic floor physiotherapy in Edmonton:
1. Pelvic Floor Muscle Training (Kegel Exercises)
- Identifying the pelvic floor muscles helps to stop urination midstream or hold back gas.
- Contract these muscles and hold for about 3-5 seconds, then release for 5 seconds. Aim for ten repetitions.
- Perform this routine 3 times a day.
Regular Kegel exercises help to strengthen the pelvic floor muscles, improving support and control for bladder and bowel function.
2. Postural Alignment and Core Strengthening
- A physiotherapist can teach specific postural exercises to ensure proper spine and pelvis alignment. This may include exercises like pelvic tilts, bridge lifts, and planks to engage and strengthen the core.
- Focus on maintaining a neutral spine while performing exercises, keeping the pelvis stable and activated.
Improving posture and strengthening core muscles can take pressure off the pelvic floor and restore balance through pelvic health physiotherapy.
3. Myofascial Release and Trigger Point Therapy
- A physiotherapist may apply manual techniques to release tension in the pelvic floor muscles. This can include applying pressure to tight spots or using foam rollers and massage balls on surrounding muscles like the hips, thighs, and lower back.
- Breathwork is used in conjunction with therapy to relax the muscles.
These techniques help release tight muscles in the pelvic region, improving flexibility and reducing discomfort.
4. Breathing and Relaxation Techniques
- Deep diaphragmatic breathing exercises can be used to relax the pelvic floor. Lie on the back with the knees bent, breathe deeply into the belly, and allow the pelvic floor to relax when exhaling.
- Incorporate breathwork into daily life to avoid unnecessary pelvic floor tension during stress or physical activity.
Breathing techniques promote relaxation, reduce tension, and improve pelvic floor function.
Reclaiming Pelvic Health with Physiotherapy
Pelvic floor physiotherapy is more common for women than most people realize, but it can benefit both men and women at Turning Point Physiotherapy Clinic. For men, they can go for male pelvic floor physiotherapy. Pelvic floor physiotherapy in Edmonton offers an array of effective treatments tailored to address pelvic health issues, promoting long-term recovery and improved quality of life. If you’re experiencing pelvic floor dysfunction, don’t wait—take control of your health today and schedule an appointment with our specialist.