You are unique. Your body is unique. But many of the problems that you and millions of women suffer from every day are not unique. Frequent bladder issues, pain or general discomfort in the pelvic area may be more common than you think, but can be treated. If you find yourself answering yes to some or many of the questions below, relief is available.
- Do you leak urine while coughing, sneezing, laughing or when running or jumping?
This indicates stress incontinence. With an increase in intra-abdominal pressure, a loss of urine occurs. - Do you have a strong urge to go to the bathroom often during the day?
This may indicate urge incontinence. That’s when the urge to urinate is present, but only a small amount of urine is produced and you’re left with a feeling of incomplete bladder emptying. - Do you wake up more than 1 time per night to use the bathroom?
This is called nocturia. Normal is 0-1 time per night. - Do you have the sensation of incomplete emptying of the bladder or bowels?
This may accompany urge incontinence and bowel dysfunction (pelvic organ prolapse). - Do you have pelvic/groin pain?
This may indicate trigger points in the pelvic floor musculature. It could also indicate a problem with one or both hips, including a possible labral tear. - If sexually active, do you have pain or dysfunction with intercourse?
Dyspareunia means pain with intercourse. Sexual appreciation can be compromised and diminished with pelvic floor dysfunction. - Do you feel heaviness of pressure in the pelvic area?
This may indicate a pelvic organ prolapse (bladder or rectum bulging or herniating through the pelvic floor). - Do you have painful periods?
This can indicate pelvic floor dysfunction. It could also indicate orthopedic dysfunctions. - What sort of exercises can I do? Are Kegel exercises enough?
If a Kegel was fully functional, I don’t think we would see 1 in 3 women having pelvic floor dysfunction. It is good to have pelvic floor awareness, but we need to restore its functional abilities. - Do you do a lot of “just in case” toileting and know where every public restroom is in town? Do you spend way too much money on pads or adult diapers? Do you avoid certain activities and exercise for fear of leakage? Are you embarrassed about the odor with the incontinence issues? Do you avoid sex for any of the above reasons?
This does not have to be your life.
We need to restore the subconscious and submaximal activation of the pelvic floor musculature in an integrated fashion with the entire core.
The Pelvic Core Neuromuscular System (PCNS) consists of:
- The Top: The Respiratory Diaphragm
- The Front: The Abdominal Muscles
- The Back: The Back and Hip Muscles
- The Bottom: The Pelvic Floor Muscles
The Physical Therapists at Pro-Motion understand the importance of looking at the entire body, from top down and bottom up and the potential contributions to pelvic floor dysfunction. They are highly skilled and comprehensive in assessing the musculoskeletal system and are very considerate when determining a treatment strategy to address the goals and needs of each client.
The interdependence of the body in its environment is monumental in determining the best treatment strategy. We take great pride in providing a comprehensive approach to your needs. Contact Pro-Motion Physical Therapy for additional information and assistance.
