Pelvic floor physiotherapy is a specialized branch of physiotherapy that focuses on the assessment and treatment of pelvic floor dysfunction. While Kegel exercises are commonly associated with pelvic floor health, there are many other effective exercises and treatment modalities that pelvic floor physiotherapists utilize to address a wide range of pelvic floor issues. In this blog post, we'll explore some of these exercises and treatments, offering a comprehensive view of pelvic floor physiotherapy beyond Kegels.
1. Pelvic Floor Relaxation Techniques:
In cases of pelvic floor hypertonicity or tightness, relaxation techniques can be highly beneficial. These techniques focus on teaching individuals how to release and relax tense pelvic floor muscles. Common relaxation techniques include diaphragmatic breathing, progressive muscle relaxation, and visualization exercises. By learning to relax the pelvic floor muscles, individuals can alleviate symptoms such as pelvic pain, urinary urgency, and constipation.
2. Pelvic Floor Strengthening Exercises:
While Kegel exercises primarily target the pelvic floor muscles, there are other exercises that can help strengthen the pelvic floor and surrounding muscles. Examples include:
Bridge Exercise: Lie on your back with knees bent and feet flat on the floor. Lift your hips off the ground, engaging your glutes and pelvic floor muscles. Hold for a few seconds, then lower back down. Repeat for several repetitions.
Squats: Stand with feet shoulder-width apart and lower into a squat position, keeping your back straight and knees aligned with your toes. As you rise back up, engage your pelvic floor muscles. Repeat for several repetitions.
Inner Thigh Squeeze: Sit on a chair with a small ball or pillow between your knees. Squeeze the ball or pillow with your inner thighs while engaging your pelvic floor muscles. Hold for a few seconds, then release. Repeat for several repetitions.
3. Manual Therapy Techniques:
Pelvic floor physiotherapists may also use manual therapy techniques to address pelvic floor dysfunction. These techniques may include:
Internal Manual Therapy: This involves the insertion of a gloved, lubricated finger into the vagina or rectum to assess and treat pelvic floor muscle tightness, trigger points, or scar tissue..
Trigger Point Release: Pressure is applied to trigger points or areas of muscular tension to alleviate pain and improve muscle function.
4. Biofeedback and Electrical Stimulation:
Biofeedback and electrical stimulation are non-invasive techniques that can help individuals improve pelvic floor muscle awareness and coordination. Biofeedback involves using sensors to provide real-time feedback on pelvic floor muscle activity, helping individuals learn to control and coordinate these muscles effectively. Electrical stimulation uses mild electrical impulses to stimulate the pelvic floor muscles, promoting muscle activation and strengthening.
In conclusion, pelvic floor physiotherapy offers a wide range of exercises and treatments beyond Kegels to address pelvic floor dysfunction effectively. Whether you're dealing with pelvic pain, urinary incontinence, or pelvic organ prolapse, a pelvic floor physiotherapist can work with you to develop a personalized treatment plan that meets your unique needs and goals. By incorporating a variety of exercises and treatments, pelvic floor physiotherapy can help individuals achieve optimal pelvic health and improve their quality of life.