Pelvic Floor Dysfunction

Pelvic muscles serve to support the pelvic organs, prevent leakage of urine or stool, and provide tone during sexual intercourse. Dysfunction of the pelvic muscles can occur from trauma (i.e. childbirth or surgery), obesity, smoking, and high physical activity. Women and men of all ages may be affected and are becoming more determined to seek treatment. There are many different forms of pelvic muscle dysfunction, but the most common symptoms include:

• Incontinence – including stress, urge, mixed and fecal incontinence
• Constipation – resulting from muscle tightness
• Pelvic pain or spasms
• Pressure or discomfort felt in the pelvic region, especially when sitting

Piedmont Rehabilitation offers specially trained physical therapists to care for individuals with pelvic floor weakness, pain or dysfunction.

Pelvic floor dysfunction treatment techniques:

• Lifting and moving correctly
• Bracing the pelvic floor muscles when you cough, laugh or sneeze
• Avoiding common bladder irritants
• Therapeutic, stretching and relaxation techniques
• Biofeedback – an instrument that records muscle activity
• Electrical stimulation – an instrument that provides gentle stimulation to either trigger a better muscle contraction or promote muscle relaxation
• Ultrasound – an instrument that promotes blood flow through muscles

Treatment and diagnostic programs vary by location.