Top 3 Conditions Treated by Pelvic Floor Physiotherapists
Pelvic floor physiotherapists specialize in treating conditions related to the muscles, ligaments, and connective tissues of the pelvic region. Here are the top three conditions commonly treated:
Urinary Incontinence
Urinary incontinence is the involuntary leakage of urine and can significantly impact daily life. It includes:
Stress Incontinence – Leakage occurs when pressure is placed on the bladder, such as during coughing, sneezing, laughing, or exercising. It often results from weakened pelvic floor muscles due to pregnancy, childbirth, or aging.
Urge Incontinence – A sudden and intense need to urinate, often leading to leakage before reaching the bathroom. This type of incontinence is associated with overactive bladder syndrome.
Mixed Incontinence – A combination of both stress and urge incontinence.
Pelvic floor physiotherapy focuses on strengthening and retraining the muscles that support the bladder and control urination. Treatment may include:
Pelvic floor exercises – Targeted strengthening to improve muscle control.
Biofeedback – Real-time feedback to help patients engage the pelvic floor muscles effectively.
Bladder retraining – Strategies to gradually increase the time between bathroom visits.
Manual therapy – Soft tissue techniques to release tension and improve muscle function.
Pelvic Pain
Pelvic pain refers to discomfort in the lower abdominal, pelvic, or perineal region and can be acute or chronic. It may stem from musculoskeletal, neurological, or organ-related causes.
Many individuals, including athletes, postpartum women, and men, experience pelvic discomfort due to pelvic floor muscle dysfunction. Common issues include:
Overactive (tight) pelvic floor muscles – Can lead to trigger points, spasms, or pain with movement and daily activities.
Underactive (weak) pelvic floor muscles – May cause instability and pain due to a lack of support for pelvic structures.
Scar tissue restrictions – From childbirth, pelvic surgeries (C-sections, hysterectomy, prostatectomy), and episiotomies, which can lead to dysfunction.
A pelvic floor physiotherapist can help improve pelvic pain through:
Manual Therapy – Myofascial release, trigger point therapy, and soft tissue mobilization to relax tight muscles and break down scar tissue.
Pelvic Floor Muscle Retraining – Biofeedback and relaxation techniques to release tension in overactive muscles. Strengthening exercises may be prescribed if weakness contributes to pain.
Breathing and Core Integration – Diaphragmatic breathing and deep core engagement to regulate intra-abdominal pressure and reduce tension.
Lifestyle and Behavioral Modifications – Postural education, bladder/bowel retraining, and stress management techniques to support long-term relief.
Pelvic Organ Prolapse
Pelvic organ prolapse (POP) occurs when the pelvic organs (bladder, uterus, or rectum) descend due to weakened pelvic floor muscles and ligaments. This condition is most common in women who have had multiple pregnancies, experienced menopause, or undergone pelvic surgeries.
Signs and Symptoms:
A feeling of heaviness or pressure in the pelvic region
A bulging sensation or visible protrusion from the vaginal opening
Difficulty emptying the bladder or bowel
Discomfort during intercourse
While severe cases may require surgical intervention, pelvic floor physiotherapy is an effective first-line treatment. Therapy may include:
Pelvic Floor Muscle Training (PFMT) – Strengthening exercises to improve muscle support and prevent further descent of organs.
Postural and Breathing Techniques – Enhancing core engagement to reduce pressure on the pelvic floor.
Education on Lifestyle Modifications – Guidance on avoiding heavy lifting, managing constipation, and using proper lifting techniques to reduce strain.
Pelvic floor physiotherapy provides non-invasive, effective treatment for urinary incontinence, pelvic pain, and pelvic organ prolapse. By addressing muscle dysfunction and improving pelvic health, individuals can regain control, reduce discomfort, and enhance their quality of life.
Ready to improve your pelvic health? Book a pelvic floor physiotherapy assessment with our pelvic floor specialists at Higher State Health & Wellness Club today! Our expert team will create a personalized treatment plan to help you feel stronger, more confident, and pain-free
Written by Erin McKinnon
