Expert Care for Pelvic Pain

Pelvic Pain

Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy

Pelvic floor physical therapy is a specialized form of therapy that focuses on the muscles, ligaments, and connective tissues in the pelvic region. It aims to treat various conditions such as pelvic pain, urinary incontinence, pelvic organ prolapse, and sexual dysfunction. Therapy involves exercises, manual techniques, and education to improve the strength, flexibility, and coordination of the pelvic floor muscles, leading to better overall pelvic health and function.

At The Center for Spine Care and Mobility, we have developed a pelvic floor program explicitly designed to address the needs of our pelvic floor patients.

Common Conditions Treated with Pelvic Floor Therapy

Pelvic Pain

Pelvic pain can be addressed through personalized treatment plans targeting the muscles and structures of the pelvic floor. Manual therapy, myofascial release, and trigger point therapy help release tension, improve blood flow, and reduce discomfort. Strengthening exercises further enhance stability and support, reducing strain on surrounding tissues.

Incontinence

Pelvic floor therapy is highly effective for managing incontinence, which refers to the involuntary loss of bladder or bowel control. Through targeted exercises, biofeedback, and manual techniques, therapists help strengthen the pelvic floor muscles, improving muscle tone and coordination. Education on lifestyle modifications, bladder training, and dietary changes also complement the physical therapy interventions.

Postpartum Scarring

During childbirth, tearing or episiotomy may result in scarring around the perineum or pelvic floor muscles, leading to pain and dysfunction. Pelvic floor therapy uses manual therapy, stretching exercises, and biofeedback to release scar tissue, improve circulation, and promote healing. This therapy helps alleviate pain, restore muscle function, and improve bladder and bowel control.

Pre & Postpartum Care

Pelvic floor therapy plays a crucial role in both pre and postpartum care by rehabilitating and strengthening the pelvic floor muscles, which undergo significant strain during pregnancy and delivery. Therapy helps address common issues such as pelvic pain, urinary incontinence, and pelvic organ prolapse. Through targeted exercises, manual techniques, and education, pelvic floor therapists help individuals improve muscle tone, restore alignment, and enhance overall pelvic health.

Endometriosis

Endometriosis is a chronic condition where uterine tissue grows outside the uterus, often leading to pelvic pain. Pelvic floor physical therapy helps manage endometriosis-related symptoms by addressing muscle tension, trigger points, and scar tissue. Manual techniques help release tightness in the pelvic muscles, while biofeedback and relaxation exercises support pain management and improve overall function.

Vulvodynia

Vulvodynia is characterized by persistent pain in the vulvar area, which can be burning, stinging, or throbbing. Pelvic floor therapy helps address muscle dysfunction contributing to this condition through manual therapy, relaxation techniques, posture correction, and biofeedback. Therapists also provide guidance on behavioral and lifestyle changes that may alleviate symptoms and improve comfort during daily activities and intimacy.

Treatment Techniques Used in Pelvic Floor Therapy

• Manual Therapy: Myofascial release and soft tissue mobilization help reduce tension and improve blood flow to the pelvic region.
• Pelvic Floor Exercises: Strengthening and relaxing pelvic floor muscles through exercises such as Kegels help improve muscle coordination and support.
• Biofeedback: Sensors provide real-time feedback on muscle activity, helping patients learn to control pelvic floor muscle function.
• Trigger Point Release: Using manual pressure or tools, identifying and treating trigger points in the pelvic region can relieve pain and improve function.
• Postural Training: Proper posture and body mechanics can alleviate strain on the pelvic area, improving pelvic function and reducing discomfort.
• Stretching & Strengthening Exercises: A tailored exercise program includes stretches for tight muscles and strengthening exercises for weak ones to enhance overall pelvic function.
• Therapeutic Ultrasound: This modality promotes healing and reduces inflammation in the pelvic region, supporting muscle relaxation and pain relief.
• TENS (Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation): Electrical currents help relieve pain and may be used as part of a comprehensive pain management plan.
• Mind-Body Techniques: Relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, mindfulness, or yoga help reduce stress and alleviate pelvic pain.

Chiropractic Care for Pelvic Floor Dysfunction

• Spinal & Pelvic Adjustments: Chiropractic adjustments to the pelvis and lower spine improve nerve function and reduce tension in the pelvic region.
• Soft Tissue Therapy: Techniques such as myofascial release and trigger point therapy help relieve muscle tension in the pelvic region.
• Neuromuscular Reeducation: Exercises and movements retrain the pelvic floor muscles for better strength and coordination.
• Postural Assessment & Correction: Improving posture relieves stress on the pelvic floor, reducing strain and discomfort.
• Biofeedback & Breathing Techniques: Chiropractors may incorporate biofeedback to help patients gain awareness of their pelvic floor muscles, while diaphragmatic breathing enhances relaxation.

Acupuncture for Pelvic Floor Dysfunction

• Local & Distal Points: Acupuncture targets pelvic region points (BL30, BL32, Ren3, Ren4) and distal points (SP6, ST36, LI4) to balance energy and relieve tension.
• Moxibustion: Burning mugwort (moxa) near acupuncture points stimulates blood flow and promotes muscle relaxation.
• Electroacupuncture: Applying electrical currents to acupuncture needles enhances pain relief, particularly for muscle spasms or tension.
• Breathing & Relaxation Techniques: Integrating deep breathing exercises enhances relaxation and pelvic floor function.

Massage Therapy for Pelvic Floor Dysfunction

• Myofascial Release: Releasing tension in the fascia improves pelvic muscle flexibility and reduces discomfort.
• Trigger Point Therapy: Applying pressure to specific trigger points in the pelvic floor muscles relieves pain and restores normal function.
• Deep Tissue Massage: Targeting deeper muscle layers helps alleviate chronic pelvic tension and pain.
• Visceral Manipulation: Working with internal organs and their connective tissues enhances movement and function.
• Perineal Massage: External perineum massage promotes relaxation and awareness of pelvic floor tension.
• Stretching & Mobilization: Gentle stretching techniques increase flexibility and range of motion in the pelvic floor and surrounding muscles.