Pelvic health is an essential part of overall well-being. However, it’s often overlooked until problems arise. The pelvic floor is a group of muscles located at the bottom of the pelvis. This muscle group plays a key role in many important functions, including bladder control, bowel control, core stability and sexual health. When these muscles become weak, tight or uncoordinated, it can lead to uncomfortable symptoms that affect daily life. Left untreated, issues in the pelvic floor muscles can lead to pelvic floor dysfunction. Pelvic floor dysfunction is a relatively common women’s health challenge. One 2022 study found that nearly one-third of women experience at least one pelvic floor disorder.
This is where pelvic floor physical therapy comes in. Pelvic rehabilitation is a specialized form of PT that can help people improve their pelvic health. With treatment from a licensed physical therapist, you can improve and maintain your pelvic health, reducing your risk of dysfunction.
Why pelvic health is important
You can think of your pelvic floor as a hammock for the rest of your core. The pelvic floor muscles stretch across the bottom of your pelvis and work to support your upper body. At the same time, these muscles are responsible for many critical functions. These include:
- Bladder and bowel control
- Internal organ support
- Sexual function
- Core stability
Maintaining a healthy pelvic floor can be key to staying active, comfortable and in control of your body.
How pelvic floor physical therapy can help
Pelvic floor physical therapy is a form of rehabilitation that focuses on restoring strength, flexibility and control in the pelvic floor muscles. Physical therapy takes a personalized approach to treatment. Instead of using one-size-fits-all treatments, your physical therapist will tailor care to your needs. And while treatments may differ depending on your situation, there are some fundamental treatment techniques often used in pelvic rehab. These include therapeutic exercises, bladder training and manual therapy.
Physical therapy can have many pelvic health benefits, ranging from near-immediate effects to long-lasting benefits. Learning about the benefits of treatment can show how PT might help you address your own symptoms.
6 pelvic health benefits of pelvic floor physical therapy
- Improved bladder control — One of the most common reasons people seek pelvic floor PT is to address urinary incontinence. Some people experience stress incontinence (leakage with activities like coughing or running), while others experience urge incontinence (a sudden, intense need to urinate). Whatever the cause of your symptoms, PT can help by strengthening the muscles that support bladder control.
- Pain relief — Chronic pelvic pain can be caused by tight or overactive pelvic floor muscles. Pelvic floor PT uses manual therapy, stretching and relaxation techniques to reduce muscle tension, relieve pain and improve blood flow to the area. This can be especially beneficial for people with painful conditions like endometriosis or interstitial cystitis.
- Postpartum recovery — PT is often beneficial after pregnancy. Following childbirth, the pelvic floor muscles may be stretched or weakened. Pelvic floor PT can help you rebuild strength and manage symptoms while you recover.
- Prolapse prevention — Pelvic organ prolapse happens when the bladder, uterus or rectum shifts downward due to weak pelvic floor muscles. Pelvic floor PT can help reduce the risk of prolapse by strengthening these muscles, providing the support needed to keep organs in place.
- Improved core strength — Your body’s core is made up of muscles in your abdomen, back, hips and pelvic floor. In this muscle group, the pelvic floor muscles play a key role. They help maintain stability, posture and balance. By strengthening your pelvic floor muscles in physical therapy, you can improve your overall core health and function.
- Quality of life — Pelvic floor dysfunction can be frustrating and emotionally draining. Symptoms like incontinence or chronic pain may limit what you can do each day and take a toll on your mental health. Fortunately, recovery is possible. Pelvic floor PT can help you regain control and comfort, letting you get back to the activities you enjoy.
Improve and maintain pelvic health wellness with Forever Fit
If you’re experiencing symptoms like incontinence, pelvic pain or weakness, you don’t have to manage them alone. You can get customized expert treatment at Forever Fit. Our licensed physical therapists understand the importance of pelvic health and how it impacts your overall well-being. We use proven techniques, like manual therapy and targeted exercises, to help you achieve your wellness goals. If you’re looking for pelvic health specialists, you can experience top-notch pelvic floor care at our Rockville, Gaithersburg, Crofton and Severna Park, Maryland, locations.
Contact our team today for more information about pelvic floor PT or to schedule an initial appointment.