Pelvic floor dysfunction (PFD) is a condition that is characterized by too much or too little tension in the pelvic muscles and tissue. It causes symptoms like pain, discomfort and urinary incontinence, among others. It affects nearly 24% of women in the U.S. Are you one of the many women with PFD? You can find out more about how physical therapy can improve the symptoms of pelvic floor dysfunction, listed below.

What conditions might necessitate pelvic floor physical therapy?

You might be interested to learn that there are several varying symptoms of pelvic floor dysfunction. Physical therapy can treat many of these. Failing to get treatment for these symptoms and conditions can negatively impact quality of life.

• Urinary incontinence — Urinary incontinence is a term used to describe uncontrolled leakage from the bladder. A person with urinary incontinence might have trouble predicting when they need to go to the bathroom, might leak urine when they sneeze or laugh, and could even urinate themselves without being able to control it.

• Bowel incontinence — Bowel incontinence is similar to urinary incontinence. It involves being unable to control bowel movements or having trouble going to the bathroom comfortably. Someone with bowel incontinence might experience frequent constipation and discomfort when going.

• Pelvic pain — Someone with pelvic floor dysfunction is likely to have frequent pain or discomfort in their pelvis. They may feel weakness and pain in the muscles, ligaments, and other tissue around the pelvic region.

• Pelvic organ prolapse — Pelvic organ prolapse is a condition that results from pelvic floor dysfunction. It involves pelvic organs moving out of their typical positions when the muscles and ligaments around them become too weak.

What are some of the most common sources of pelvic floor dysfunction?

There are a large number of causes of pelvic floor dysfunction. Here are some of the most common:

• Giving birth — One of the most common sources of pelvic floor dysfunction is giving birth. Many women experience changes to their pelvic bones and tissue as their body makes room for a growing baby. These changes can linger after birth. Pregnancy and childbirth can loosen ligaments and tissue and contribute to pelvic floor problems that may need attention from a physical therapist.

• Lifting heavy objects too often — Another source of PFD is frequently lifting objects that are heavy. People with occupations that require moving heavy items like furniture or large boxes are more likely to experience pelvic floor instability that needs a physical therapist’s treatment.

• Treatment for cancer — People who receive treatment for pelvic, bladder or any type of pelvic-related cancers can experience pelvic floor dysfunction after chemotherapy, radiation and surgical procedures to treat their cancer.

• Excessive coughing — Individuals who cough excessively are likely to develop problems with their pelvic muscles. It can lead a person to overuse and even injure the muscles and organs in the pelvic floor. In extreme cases, it can even lead to pelvic organ prolapse.

Why should you see a physical therapist for pelvic floor therapy?

Seeing a physical therapist near you is a good idea when you’re dealing with pelvic floor issues. A physical therapist can help you build core strength, improve urinary and bowel control, add support to the pelvic organs, and decrease pain.

Lattimore PT can improve your pelvic floor with physical therapy

Lattimore Physical Therapy & Sports Rehabilitation Network started in 1992. John and Cindy Shuman, husband and wife, first launched their own physical therapy practice intending to improve the quality of life of each community member. Since 1992, Lattimore PT has opened dozens of different locations across New York.

Our team of licensed physical therapists across the state is dedicated to understanding the best treatment for you. We specialize in taking a “hands-on,” interactive approach with each of our patients to provide them with the best care possible. The ultimate mark of success is a patient who feels positively impacted by our work. Are you ready to experience “the Lattimore way”?

We’re a great choice when it comes to receiving physical therapy care for pelvic floor problems. We’ll do the best we can to improve your symptoms and keep them at bay years from now. You’re not just another diagnosis when you visit one of our clinics. You’re a patient deserving help. Let us be the ones to give you that help and improve your pelvic floor health.

Contact our team today for more information or to schedule an initial appointment.