Pelvic Floor Dysfunction – Physical Therapy Treatment
Pelvic floor dysfunction (PFD) is a condition in which the pelvic floor muscles fail to function properly. These muscles support the bladder, bowel, and, in women, the uterus. When these muscles become too tight (hypertonic), too weak (hypotonic), or lack coordination, physical therapy for pelvic floor dysfunction helps.
Symptoms of Pelvic Floor Dysfunction
Symptoms of pelvic floor dysfunction differ in men and women.
Pelvic Floor Dysfunction In Women
Urinary incontinence
Frequent need to urinate
Painful urination
Pain during intercourse
Pelvic pain or pressure
Bowel dysfunction (such as constipation, straining, or incomplete evacuation)
Feeling of heaviness or bulging in the vagina
Pelvic Floor Dysfunction In Men
Urinary urgency or hesitancy
Difficulty emptying the bladder
Post-void dribbling
Erectile dysfunction or pain with ejaculation
Chronic pelvic pain
Bowel dysfunction (constipation, incomplete evacuation)
Diagnosing Pelvic Floor Dysfunction
Diagnosing this condition involves a clinical evaluation, patient history, and sometimes imaging tests. Your doctor will review your medical history and symptoms. This review includes an assessment of pain levels and triggers.
You also receive an examination of your posture, lower back, and hip mobility to help assess the state of your pelvic floor function.
In addition, women receive a pelvic exam checking for tightness, prolapse, or trigger points in the pelvic muscles. Men receive a rectal exam evaluating muscle tightness, strength, and coordination.
Specialized tests such as MRI, ultrasound, EMG, and urodynamics and anorectal manometry may also be performed.
Does Physical Therapy Work for Pelvic Floor Dysfunction?
Yes, pelvic floor physical therapy (PFPT) provides one of the most effective, non-invasive treatments for PFD. Research and clinical practice support its effectiveness in improving symptoms.
Pelvic Floor Relaxation Techniques
For tight or hypertonic muscles (as with chronic pelvic pain or constipation), Irvine physical therapists focus on down-training techniques such as:
· Manual therapy (internal or external trigger point release)
· Diaphragmatic breathing
· Biofeedback therapy
· Stretching & mobility exercises
Pelvic Floor Strengthening Therapy Techniques
For weak or hypotonic muscles (causing incontinence or prolapse), physical therapy in Dana Point includes:
· Kegel exercises (if appropriate)
· Core strengthening
· Functional training to improve coordination
Myofascial Release and Manual Physical Therapy
Costa Mesa physical therapists treat pelvic floor dysfunction using myofascial release and manual therapy that addresses tightness, trigger points, or scar tissue affecting the pelvic region.
Other Physical Therapy for Pelvic Floor Dysfunction
Posture and movement training improves alignment to reduce strain on the pelvic floor. These exercises and movements can be performed at home. In addition, behavioral and lifestyle changes such as bladder and bowel retraining techniques and dietary adjustments for constipation or urinary frequency support in-office therapy while at home for lasting relief.
Physical Therapy for Pelvic Floor Dysfunction Works
Trial after trial and study after study prove the effectiveness of physical therapy treatment for pelvic floor dysfunction.
Urinary Symptoms
A systematic review by Cochrane analyzed 31 trials involving 1,817 women with stress, urge, or mixed urinary incontinence. The findings indicated that 67% of women who received physical therapy in the form of pelvic floor muscle training reported a cure or improvement compared to 29% that were in the control groups. (67% vs. 29%).
PFD Pain
Researchers evaluated the effectiveness of physical therapy for women with chronic pelvic pain. Their study published in BMC Women's Health concluded that physical therapy techniques are effective, showing reliable results in improving pain and quality of life.
Sexual Dysfunction
Research published in the American Journal of Obstetrics & Gynecology demonstrated that physical therapy improved the Female Sexual Function Index total score and several subscales, suggesting that physical therapy offers effective treatment for female sexual dysfunction.
Irvine and Costa Mesa Physical Therapy for Pelvic Floor Dysfunction
Men and women in Newport Beach, Laguna Beach, Corona del Mar, Dana Point, Aliso Viejo as well as Irvine and Costs Mesa find relief with physical therapy for pelvic floor dysfunction at Balanced Body Depot.
Clinical studies and systematic reviews clearly support the effectiveness of physical therapy for pelvic floor dysfunction.
Schedule a free consultation today.
