Pelvic floor physiotherapy is a specialized area of physiotherapy that focuses on the muscles, ligaments, and connective tissues that support the pelvic organs, including the bladder, uterus, and rectum. Pelvic floor physiotherapy can be helpful in the treatment of a variety of conditions, including urinary incontinence, fecal incontinence, pelvic pain, and sexual dysfunction.
During pelvic floor physiotherapy, a physiotherapist will work with you to develop a personalized treatment plan that may include a variety of techniques, including:
Kegel exercises: These exercises involve contracting and relaxing the muscles of the pelvic floor to improve their strength and endurance.
Activation of transabdominal muscles is crucial in pelvic floor exercises:
*The transabdominal muscle, also known as the transverse abdominis muscle, is a deep muscle that lies beneath the abdominal muscles.
* It plays an important role in stabilizing the trunk and pelvis during movement and is often referred to as the "corset muscle" because of its role in supporting the core.
*The transabdominal muscle is closely related to the pelvic floor muscles, as they work together to support the pelvic organs and maintain continence.
* When these muscles contract together, they create intra-abdominal pressure that helps support the pelvic organs and prevent urinary and fecal incontinence.
Therefore, strengthening and coordinating the transabdominal and pelvic floor muscles together through exercises like the pelvic tilt, bridging, and core stabilization exercises can be beneficial for improving pelvic floor function and reducing symptoms of pelvic floor dysfunction.
It's important to note that proper instruction from a trained healthcare professional is crucial when performing exercises that involve the transabdominal and pelvic floor muscles to ensure proper activation and prevent any unwanted strain or injury.
Physiotherapists also use specialised techniques for treatment. Some of them include:
*Biofeedback: This technique uses sensors to monitor the activity of the pelvic floor muscles and provides visual or auditory feedback to help you learn how to properly contract and relax these muscles.
*Electrical stimulation: This technique involves the use of a small electrical current to stimulate the muscles of the pelvic floor, which can help to improve their strength and function.
*Manual therapy: This may include massage or stretching techniques to help release tension and improve mobility in the pelvic floor muscles.
*Education and lifestyle modifications: Your physiotherapist may provide guidance.
*Posture can have a significant impact on the pelvic floor muscles. Poor posture can cause the muscles in the pelvic floor to weaken and become less effective at their role in supporting the bladder, uterus, and rectum.
*Sitting for prolonged periods in a slumped or hunched position can put excessive pressure on the pelvic floor muscles, causing them to stretch and weaken. This can lead to problems such as urinary incontinence, pelvic organ prolapse, and pain during sexual intercourse.
*On the other hand, good posture can help to maintain the strength and integrity of the pelvic floor muscles. When the body is in proper alignment, the pelvic floor muscles can function optimally, supporting the organs and preventing the problems associated with weakened muscles.
*To maintain good posture, it is essential to sit and stand with the back straight, shoulders relaxed, and feet flat on the ground. Engaging the core muscles can also help to support the pelvic floor muscles and improve posture.
*It is crucial to be aware of your posture throughout the day and make adjustments as needed to maintain good alignment. Maintaining good posture can help to prevent problems with the pelvic floor muscles and promote overall health and wellbeing.
Breathing techniques: The following are some breathing techniques commonly used in pelvic floor exercises:
Deep breathing: Inhale deeply through your nose and exhale slowly through your mouth. As you exhale, contract your pelvic floor muscles and lift them upward. Hold for a few seconds and then release the contraction as you inhale.
Diaphragmatic breathing: This technique involves breathing deeply into your belly and expanding your diaphragm. As you exhale, contract your pelvic floor muscles and lift them upward. Hold for a few seconds and then release the contraction as you inhale.
Counted breathing: Inhale deeply through your nose and count to four. Exhale slowly through your mouth and count to six. As you exhale, contract your pelvic floor muscles and lift them upward. Hold for a few seconds and then release the contraction as you inhale.
It is essential to remember that breathing should be coordinated with the pelvic floor muscle contractions. Practice and find the technique that works best for you. You can start with a few repetitions of each exercise and gradually increase as your muscles get stronger. It is also advisable to consult a healthcare professional before starting any new exercise routine. Dietary changes can also help improve pelvic floor function.
Pelvic floor physiotherapy is a safe and effective treatment option for individuals experiencing pelvic floor dysfunction. It is important to consult with a trained physiotherapist to receive proper diagnosis and treatment for your specific condition.