“I was set free because my greatest fear had been realized…[and] rock bottom because a solid foundation on which I rebuilt my life.”
-J.K. Rowling
Symptoms
Treating the pelvic floor (along with adjacent structures) can help treat a variety of conditions. This includes chronic low back pain, hip pain, pelvic pain, sciatica, urinary frequency, constipation, incontinence, prolapse, sexual pain, pregnancy and postpartum pain, diastasis recti, bowel and bladder dysfunction, and other pelvic issues.
Anatomy Overview
The pelvic floor is a group of bowl-shaped muscles reaching across the bottom of your pelvis. These muscles certainly contribute to bowel, bladder, and sexual function but that’s not all. In addition, this area is responsible for being a solid foundation. It supports our bodies both above and below. These muscles provide the stability necessary for moving your body without pain. If the pelvic floor is not solid, strong, and mobile, the rest of our spine will have to compensate. This can lead to pain and dysfunction through the upper back, neck, jaw, and even headaches.
Undeniably, the pelvic floor has many similarities to any other muscle in the body. It can be tight, weak, or not coordinating correctly. However, there are also big differences. This is an extremely protective and emotional area of our bodies. This is because it guards openings to your body and is often involved in traumatic events. For example: childbirth, assault, falling on tailbone, etc.
Common, Not Normal
At this time, many people believe their symptoms are normal. Coupled with healthcare professionals often overlooking the pelvic floor, this area is very under-treated. In fact, these issues might be common but are never normal. These muscles should be assessed and THEN treated. Just like any other area of the body. There should not be guesswork involved in its mobility, strength, or coordination. Treatment is more complex than just doing kegels!
