Mississauga and Oakville Pain Clinic offering chiropractic, physiotherapy, massage therapy and orthotic services to residents of Churchill Meadows InMississauga
Mississauga and Oakville Pain Clinic offering chiropractic, physiotherapy, massage therapy and orthotic services to residents of Churchill Meadows InMississauga
Pelvic floor dysfunction is a common condition where you can’t correctly relax and coordinate the muscles in your pelvic floor to urinate or have a bowel movement. This condition can lead to symptoms such as constipation, straining to poop, leakage of urine or stool, and a frequent need to urinate. For those assigned female at birth (AFAB), it may also cause pain during intercourse, while those assigned male at birth (AMAB) may experience issues with erectile function.
The symptoms of pelvic floor dysfunction include frequent bathroom visits, difficulty starting and stopping urination, straining to pass a bowel movement, constipation, leakage of urine or feces, painful urination, unexplained lower back pain, and ongoing pain in the pelvic region. The exact cause of pelvic floor dysfunction is not well understood, but it can be associated with traumatic injuries to the pelvic area, overuse of pelvic muscles, prior pelvic surgery, pregnancy and childbirth, aging, stress, anxiety, and certain connective tissue disorders.
To diagnose pelvic floor dysfunction, healthcare providers typically start by asking about your symptoms and medical history. A physical exam may be performed to check for spasms, knots, or weakness in the pelvic floor muscles. Additional tests may include anorectal manometry, defecating proctogram, and urodynamic testing to measure muscle function and coordination.
Treatment for pelvic floor dysfunction often includes pelvic floor physical therapy to identify and stretch tense muscles, biofeedback to improve muscle coordination, and medications to keep bowel movements soft and regular. Relaxation techniques such as meditation, warm baths, yoga, and acupuncture may also be recommended to relieve muscle tension. In some cases, trigger point injections may be used to relax overly tense muscles.
Living with pelvic floor dysfunction requires commitment to treatment and lifestyle changes. It is important to adhere to prescribed medications and therapy appointments, avoid activities that increase pelvic floor tension, drink plenty of water, and follow a healthy meal plan. Pelvic floor exercises, such as Kegels, can strengthen the muscles and improve symptoms. However, if you have overly tight pelvic floor muscles, it is essential to focus on relaxation techniques and stretches instead.
Pelvic floor dysfunction can significantly impact daily life, but with proper diagnosis and treatment, many people experience improvements in their symptoms. If you are experiencing symptoms of pelvic floor dysfunction, it is important to speak with a healthcare provider for a comprehensive evaluation and personalized treatment plan. Embracing a proactive approach to pelvic health can enhance your overall well-being and quality of life.