The pelvic organs include the bladder, rectum, and prostate (in men) or the vagina and uterus (in women). When functioning properly, the body can tighten and relax the pelvic floor muscles, allowing you to go to the bathroom easily.
But if there is a dysfunction, the body keeps tightening the pelvic floor muscles, leading to urine or stool leakage and problems with bowel movement. Physiotherapy can treat pelvic floor dysfunction.
This article explores how pelvic floor physiotherapy in Barrie can help with pelvic floor dysfunction.
What Are The Causes Of Pelvic Floor Dysfunction?
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There is no specific cause of pelvic floor dysfunction. Nevertheless, several factors may contribute to it. These factors include;
● Muscle strain during childbirth
● Traumatic injuries
● Nerve damage
● Pelvic surgery
● High-impact exercise
● Aging
● Obesity
● Pregnancy
● Pelvic muscles overuse
Why Is Pelvic Floor Physiotherapy Necessary?
Pelvic floor physiotherapy restores the function of the pelvic floor. Pelvic floor dysfunction occurs when the pelvic muscles cannot relax and contract as they should, leading to incontinence. People with pelvic floor dysfunction may also experience painful sex, lower back pain, and pain in their genitals.
Pelvic floor therapy alleviates the symptoms of pelvic floor dysfunction. These symptoms include;
● Straining pain during bowel movement
● Incontinence
● Constipation
● Frequent urination
● Burning sensation when urinating
● Painful sex in women
● Erectile dysfunction in men
What Happens During Physiotherapy For Pelvic Floor Dysfunction?
Physiotherapy in Barrie, ON understands pelvic floor dysfunction is a personal issue for patients. Therefore, physiotherapists are patient and compassionate, helping patients become comfortable answering questions.
During the initial evaluation, your physiotherapist will review your medical history, evaluate your symptoms, and perform a physical examination to assess painful or dysfunctional areas.
After evaluating the patient, the physiotherapist designs an effective treatment plan to suit you and restore mobility and movement. Usually, the treatment is not a one-day treatment. You have to go for multiple sessions till you make a full recovery.
Physiotherapy for pelvic floor dysfunction reduces pain, increases range of motion, and corrects bowel and urinary patterns. It also improves sexual function and reduces the risk of developing chronic pain.
Pelvic Floor Dysfunction Treatment
Physiotherapy in Barrie uses external and internal therapy to treat pelvic floor dysfunction. If you are initially nervous about internal treatment, our physiotherapists won’t proceed till you are ready. Pending time, you will undergo external therapies to stabilize your pelvic floor.
Pelvic floor dysfunction treatment includes;
Medication
Your doctor may prescribe medications for soft and regular bowel movements. The drug may be a muscle relaxant that prevents your pelvic floor muscles from contracting. Some of these medications are usually available over the counter.
Biofeedback
Women’s pelvic therapy in Barrie uses biofeedback to retrain the pelvic floor muscles. The technique is pain-free and uses special sensors. Biofeedback monitors the movement of your pelvic muscles as you relax and clench them. Consequently, your physiotherapist gets feedback on the specific muscles that need strengthening and improved function.
Pelvic Floor Exercises
Pelvic floor exercises or Kegels strengthen your pelvic floor muscles as you try to contract and relax them. Kegel exercises also improve blood circulation and vaginal lubrication. Therefore, regularly carrying out Kegels helps with urinary incontinence and improves sexual health.
Vaginal Dilators
Vaginal dilators are cylindrical pelvic floor therapy devices that you can insert into the vagina to stretch and relax the muscles. The dilators have varying sizes as the vaginal wall expands or relaxes. You can use vaginal dilators at home.
Weighted Vaginal Cones
Weighted vaginal cones are also devices with an increasing weight that you can insert in your vagina. When using weighted cones, you have to hold them in place with your pelvic muscle contraction. You can start with a short session and gradually increase intensity as you increase resistance.
Relaxation Techniques
Relaxation techniques, including yoga, meditation, and deep breathing, can calm the body and reduce pain and emotional stress.
Electrical Stimulation Therapy
Electrical stimulation therapy uses electrodes to deliver painless electrical impulses. These electrodes may be inserted vaginally or anally to treat muscle weakness, spasms, and pain.
Is Pelvic Floor Physiotherapy Effective?
Understandably, pelvic floor physiotherapy sounds invasive. However, the treatment is effective with a high success rate. Undergoing pelvic floor physiotherapy not only reduces pain but also improves the quality of your life.
How To Prevent Pelvic Floor Dysfunction
After pelvic floor therapy, it is essential to carry out self-care techniques to speed up your recovery and prevent a reoccurrence. Regular stretches and Kegels can strengthen your pelvic floor muscles. Your physiotherapist will recommend the best exercises for you.
Also, it is best to maintain a healthy weight, have good nutrition, and drink sufficient water. You should also avoid straining when urinating or during a bowel movement.
Conclusion
Not having control over your bladder and rectum can be disorienting. But with proper treatment, your symptoms can become better. So, instead of living in pain and discomfort, contact Concept of Movement Physiotherapy for pelvic therapy in Barrie for appropriate treatment.
