Causes of Pelvic Floor Dysfunction
Pelvic floor dysfunction occurs when the muscles, ligaments, and connective tissues in the pelvic area are weakened, overstretched, or fail to function properly. Common causes include:
1. Pregnancy and Childbirth
- Increased Strain: Carrying and delivering a baby can overstretch and weaken pelvic floor muscles.
- Trauma During Delivery: Tears or episiotomies during childbirth can contribute to dysfunction.
2. Aging and Hormonal Changes
- Decreased Muscle Tone: Natural aging can weaken the pelvic floor muscles.
- Menopause: Hormonal changes can reduce tissue elasticity and muscle strength.
3. Chronic Strain
- Constipation: Regular straining during bowel movements puts pressure on pelvic muscles.
- Heavy Lifting: Frequent lifting of heavy objects can weaken the pelvic support system.
4. Surgery or Injury
- Pelvic Surgery: Procedures like hysterectomies can impact pelvic muscle function.
- Injuries: Trauma to the pelvic area can disrupt muscle coordination.
5. Medical Conditions
- Obesity: Excess weight increases pressure on the pelvic floor.
- Chronic Coughing: Conditions like asthma or COPD lead to repetitive strain.
How Physiotherapy Can Help
Physiotherapy is a non-invasive and effective treatment option for pelvic floor dysfunction. Trained physiotherapists employ various techniques to alleviate symptoms, restore muscle function, and improve overall well-being. Here’s how:
1. Pelvic Floor Muscle Training (PFMT)
- Strengthening Exercises: Tailored exercises to restore muscle strength and coordination.
- Biofeedback: Real-time feedback to help patients identify and engage the correct muscles.
- Relaxation Techniques: Addressing overactive or tense pelvic muscles.
2. Manual Therapy
- Myofascial Release: Gentle manipulation to reduce tension and improve mobility.
- Trigger Point Therapy: Relieves pain and promotes healing in targeted muscle areas.
3. Education and Lifestyle Modifications
- Bladder and Bowel Management: Guidance on healthy bathroom habits.
- Postural Training: Improving posture to reduce pelvic strain.
- Activity Adjustments: Advice on modifying activities to prevent further damage.
4. Adjunct Therapies
- Electrical Stimulation: Helps retrain muscles and improve strength.
- Ultrasound Therapy: Reduces pain and inflammation in the pelvic area.
Pelvic Floor Rehab for Men
While pelvic floor therapy is commonly associated with women, it’s equally important for men. Men can experience pelvic floor issues due to:
- Prostate Surgery: Leading to urinary incontinence or pelvic discomfort.
- Chronic Pelvic Pain Syndrome: Tight or weak muscles causing pain in the pelvis, lower back, or genitals.
- Erectile Dysfunction: Linked to weakened pelvic floor muscles.
How It Helps Men
- Improves bladder control post-surgery or with aging.
- Relieves pelvic pain caused by muscle tension or nerve irritation.
- Supports better sexual health and performance.
Meet Fabrizio - A Physiotherapist dedicated in helping pelvic floor rehabilitation
Fabrizio is a highly skilled physiotherapist with years of experience in healthcare. A graduate with honors in Physiotherapy from Sapienza University in Rome and holder of an osteopathy degree from the Belgian School of Osteopathy, he specializes in holistic care. Fabrizio integrates diverse techniques to promote overall wellness, working empathetically with children, adolescents, and young adults to guide them on their care journey.
Book Your Consultation
Take the first step towards reclaiming your comfort and health. Schedule a consultation with our expert physiotherapists to learn how Pelvic Floor Rehabilitation can help you. Reach out today and begin your journey to recovery.
Pelvic Floor Rehabilitation | Osteopathic Health Centre, Dubai
www.osteopathydubai.com
