Pelvic Floor Dysfunction Physical Therapy | Exercises for Pelvic Floor

Pelvic Floor Dysfunction is a condition where a person has increased muscular tension, muscle incoordination and/or muscular spasms in the muscles that make up the pelvic floor. This can cause a myriad of symptoms such as pain, burning, itching, sexual dysfunction, dysfunction of the urinary, genital and/or colorectal systems. Pelvic floor dysfunction can affect both men, women, and even children.

Symptoms of pelvic floor dysfunction are widespread and can vary between individuals, but often include:

Frequent urination
Pelvic Pain
Painful urination
Inconsistent stream of urination (you might “stop and start”) or the feeling that you can never quite fully empty the bladder
Stool or urinary incontinence
Constipation
Dyspareunia (pain with intercourse)
Needing to strain or push very hard to have a bowel movement 
Lower back pain without any other obvious cause 
Erectile dysfunction (in men)

Many things can cause or contribute to pelvic floor dysfunction, including being pregnant and postpartum, a history of surgery or trauma in the pelvic area, chronic stress, and getting older. In some cases, there is no clear cause. Pelvic floor dysfunction may also occur with or look like other health conditions, including interstitial cystitis, pelvic organ prolapse and prostatitis (in men).

Research shows that pelvic floor physical therapy is an effective treatment for pelvic floor dysfunction. Techniques offered by pelvic floor physical therapists, including biofeedback, breathing exercises, relaxation techniques and manual therapy can not only alleviate symptoms but can improve the overall strength, function and alignment of the pelvic floor muscles, leading to better long-term outcomes. Some people benefit from additional approaches to managing and alleviating their pelvic floor dysfunction, including medication, dietary modifications, regular exercise and acupuncture.

If you believe you’re experiencing symptoms of pelvic floor dysfunction, contact ITR Physical Therapy of Bethesda, MD and McLean, VA to schedule an appointment today.