Pelvic Floor Disorder

Pelvic Floor Disorder

A pelvic floor disorder is any condition that weakens or damages the pelvic floor, a hammock of tissues in the pelvic region that supports the bladder, rectum, and reproductive organs. These disorders are very common among women and are considerably rare among men.

Pelvic floor disorders can vary in cause, accompanying symptoms, and treatment approach. Notable symptoms may include bowel/bladder incontinence, low back and/or hip pain, and sexual dysfunction (painful entry being a common complaint).

Pelvic Floor Disorder: Common Symptoms

  • bowel and/or bladder incontinence*
  • chronic pain
  • discomfort in the vagina or rectum
  • hip or low back pain
  • paresthesia (tingling) in the legs and feet
  • sexual dysfunction
  • urinary issues
  • weakness in the legs

*If you are experiencing bowel and/or bladder incontinence in addition to low back and/or pelvic pain, this may be a sign of a serious, time-sensitive condition. Strongly consider visiting the emergency room immediately.

Pelvic Floor Disorder Causes

Pelvic floor disorders are most commonly caused by pregnancy, though there are a few other possible causes. Risk of developing a pelvic floor disorder increases with the number of pregnancies, and is further increased in the presence of obesity. Some common causes include the following:

Example Causes

  • childbirth
  • genetics
  • menopause
  • obesity
  • pregnancy
  • previous pelvic surgery

Pelvic Floor Disorder Treatment

Always consult your physician before attempting any kind of treatment program.

Yakima’s trained staff Central Washington Physical Therapy specializes in pelvic floor disorders. Since individual cases can vary, the therapist has to be very knowledgeable in a wide variety of strain-counterstrain techniques that can effectively correct pelvic floor disorders.

Treatment programs for these conditions typically revolve around a lot of exercise and manual therapy to help the body naturally correct the dysfunction. Forms of treatment that may be included in the plan of care are as follows:

Pelvic Floor: Treatment Options

If you suffer from a pelvic floor disorder, Yakima’s Central Washington Physical Therapy may be able to help you. Contact us below to get started.

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