Conditions We Treat
Pelvic Floor Dysfunction
What Is It?
Pelvic floor dysfunction refers to impaired coordination, weakness, or overactivity of the pelvic floor muscles, which support pelvic organs and contribute to continence, sexual function, and core stability.
Dysfunction may involve:
- Inability to relax pelvic muscles (hypertonicity)
- Weak or underactive pelvic muscles (hypotonicity)
- Poor coordination affecting bladder, bowel, or core function
This condition affects all genders and ages but is more common in women, particularly after childbirth.
Symptoms
- Pelvic pain or pressure
- Urinary incontinence, urgency, or frequency
- Constipation or straining with bowel movements
- Painful urination or defecation
- Pain during or after sexual activity
- Low back, tailbone, hip, or groin pain
- Sensation of incomplete bladder or bowel emptying
- In men, symptoms may mimic prostatitis
Diagnosis
- Detailed medical history including bladder, bowel, sexual, and pain symptoms
- Physical exam with external and internal pelvic floor assessment
- Musculoskeletal evaluation of posture, spine, and hips
- Diagnostic tools may include:
- Pelvic ultrasound or MRI
- Urinary flow testing
- Surface EMG for biofeedback assessment
- Multidisciplinary evaluation may involve PM&R, gynecology, urology, or colorectal specialists
Treatment
Conservative Options:
- Pelvic floor physical therapy with muscle retraining, relaxation, and biofeedback
- Manual therapy for internal and external trigger points
- Postural and breathing retraining
Additional Interventions:
- Behavioral modifications including bladder/bowel training and dietary changes
- Medications such as muscle relaxants, stool softeners, or neuropathic pain agents
- Trigger point injections or nerve blocks in select cases
- Psychological support when chronic pain or trauma is present
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