7 Things You May Not Know About Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy

Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy vs. Medication:

1- Contrary to popular belief, pelvic floor physical therapy can offer better results than medications like Viagra or Cialis for addressing erectile dysfunction or dissatisfaction in males. By focusing on improving pelvic floor function and reducing strain, this therapy approach tackles the root causes, yielding promising outcomes.

Coordination, not just strength:

2- Lack of coordination is often misconstrued as weakness. Consider this example: if a muscle, such as the quad, struggles to contract, it may not pass a traditional strength test. Comprehensive assessment is key to identifying coordination issues and ensuring accurate diagnoses, particularly within the pelvic floor system.

The Power of Proper Breathing:

3- Breathing techniques play a significant role in pelvic floor health. Surprisingly, many individuals are unaware of proper breathing practices. Runners, for instance, tend to be shallow chest breathers, while swimmers demonstrate more efficient breathing patterns. Addressing correct rib expansion and balanced inflation throughout the trunk is crucial to optimize pelvic floor function.

Long-Term Impact of Surgical Scars:

4- Scars from past surgeries, even years later, can continue to cause problems due to adhesions. These adhesions restrict soft tissue movement, hampering overall trunk mobility. It is essential to address scar tissue restrictions to promote optimal movement during activities and rehabilitation.

Integrated Movements vs. Isolated Control:

5- The ability to perform isolated pelvic floor contractions (kegels) is not the sole indicator of muscle coordination. Integrated movements, where the pelvic floor functions in harmony with the rest of the body, hold greater importance. The ability to coordinate pelvic floor contractions within the broader system takes precedence over isolated muscle control.

The Rise of Pelvic Floor Awareness:

6- The field of pelvic floor therapy has long been an underserved niche. However, with the advent of social media, awareness and understanding are growing rapidly. Individuals, clinicians, and pelvic floor health advocates are leveraging these platforms to share experiences, resources, and knowledge, contributing to a positive shift in the narrative surrounding pelvic floor health.

The Unique Skill Set of Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy:

7- Pelvic floor therapy sits at the intersection of orthopedics and sports, requiring a specialized skill set. Therapists in this field possess diagnostic abilities, a problem-solving mindset, and a background in strength and conditioning. This expertise enables them to progress beyond basic rehabilitation, unlocking the full potential of movement patterns and performance.