Pelvic Floor Tension/ Pain
Pelvic floor muscle tension or pain may occur in the anatomical sling of muscles which support the bladder, uterus and rectum. It can be caused by muscle imbalances, nerve or joint problems, scar tissue from surgery, childbirth, endometriosis or after radiation. Pelvic pain can also be caused by hemorrhoids, anal fissures, organ prolapse or constipation.
One who suffers from pelvic floor pain/tension may experience painful intercourse, difficulty sitting, pain in the buttocks, hips, lower abdomen or low back.
Imbalances in the muscles surrounding the pelvis can cause Vulvar Vestibulitis, Vulvodynia, Interstitial Cystitis or Vaginismus.
Rehabilitation may include pelvic floor relaxation training, manual therapies, postural and therapeutic exercise, electrical stimulation and biofeedback.
Incontinence
Incontinence is the loss of bladder or bowel control, resulting in involuntary leakage of urine or feces.
Pelvic floor muscle weakness, resulting in a reduction of muscular support for the bladder, uterus or rectum, may be the cause. The muscles, because of disuse, are unable to tighten and keep the openings closed.
Incontinence of urine may be termed:
- Stress (leakage with physical activity, coughing, sneezing or laughing)
- Urgency or Frequency (involuntary bladder emptying whenever the sensation of urge is felt)
Involuntary leakage of feces and gas can be the result of chronic constipation or trauma.
Behavioral assessment of food, beverage and medication consumption can identify contributing factors.
Treatment often includes:
- Retraining bowel and bladder habits.
- Abdominal muscle rehabilitation.
- Pelvic floor muscle rehabilitation (with or without electrical stimulation).
- Biofeedback.
