By Dr. Allison Feldt, PT, DPT
3 min read
Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy is the treatment of pelvic floor dysfunction. But what is the cause of pelvic floor dysfunction? Oftentimes it is caused by trauma, so pregnancy and birth can cause trauma to the pelvic floor, but so can car accidents and injuries. More subtle causes might be straining going to the bathroom, joint instability, constant clenching of the pelvic floor muscles and high-intensity workouts like running, crossfit and gymnastics.
Pelvic Floor Dysfunction is usually due to a lack of blood flow to the pelvic floor muscles which can be caused by scar tissue or hypertonicity, extreme tightness of the muscle. If these dysfunctions are present during pregnancy it will affect a vaginal birth and can lead to a C-Section. That is why the number one thing we do in Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy is address this issue with manual therapy both internally and externally.
But really our bodies will compensate for pelvic floor dysfunction by putting strain on our joints and muscles. During pregnancy our joints are already compromised by a hormone called Relaxin that makes our joints flexible and allows for the pelvis to open during birth. Our pelvic floor will continue to atrophy with a lack of blood flow and that leads to more leaking because that muscle is weak and can no longer control our bathroom functions. We always say just because it is common doesn’t mean it is normal. Addressing the issue holistically with an expert will eliminate the need for surgeries and medications down the road.
Symptoms Of Pelvic Floor Dysfunction
Common Issues During Pregnancy That Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy Addresses:
Healthy Pelvic Floor Checklist
Can’t Check All Of These Boxes? Pelvic Floor Therapy Will Help You! Book A Complimentary Consultation With A Pelvic Expert Physical Therapist! To Book Visit https://bodymotionpt.com/discovery-visit/
About the author
Allison is a pelvic floor physical therapist and the founder of Body Motion PT in Edmonds. A mom who knows the aftermath of pregnancy and birth firsthand, she's on a mission to help women restore their core and pelvic floor at every stage of life.
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