Many people underestimate the crucial role that the pelvic floor plays in maintaining proper bodily function. However, it is one of the most important parts of the body. The pelvic floor supports and protects internal organs, facilitates blood circulation, and ensures proper nerve signaling to the lower extremities. To help us understand the function and importance of this vital area, we spoke with our physical therapists – Ewa Krecisz and Piotr Domagała – about pelvic floor problems and their treatment.
What problems can a malfunctioning pelvis cause?
Peter: Malfunctioning pelvis or pelvic dysfunction can lead to a wide range of health issues. These include circulatory disorders, swelling, slow wound healing, and the development of varicose veins. Patients may also experience problems with intestinal peristalsis, resulting in chronic diarrhea, constipation, and high pressure in the lower abdomen. This pressure can affect nerves, causing various forms of neuralgia. Nerve compression in the pelvic area may also result in urinary pain, incontinence, and intimacy issues.
Ewa: The causes of incontinence problems are diverse, ranging from peripheral nerve damage and perinatal trauma to tumors, inflammation, and adhesions. Fortunately, specialized manual therapy for the pelvis can effectively treat most disorders caused by nerve dysfunction, impaired blood flow, and lymphatic circulation.
Who most commonly suffers from incontinence problems?
Ewa: Pelvic floor problems are not limited to a specific gender. Women post-childbirth and seniors of any gender are commonly affected. One of the main challenges is the low number of individuals seeking pelvic floor therapy. Many doctors still advise patients to accept these issues as natural, particularly in seniors and postnatal women. However, effective treatment is available and should be pursued.
Piotr: Patients often hesitate to seek treatment due to outdated therapy methods, many of which involve internal techniques that make them uncomfortable. Modern pelvic floor therapy, such as Fascial Counterstrain therapy, offers a non-invasive and highly effective alternative.
How Are Pelvic Floor Problems Diagnosed?
Piotr: Some patients describe Fascial Counterstrain therapy as a magical technique, but it is based on precise body mechanics. Similar to reflexology, pressure is applied to specific points to stimulate organ function. Our therapists can identify tender points on the head corresponding to different body parts, including the pelvis. We assess neurological, circulatory, spinal, and lymphatic systems. Symptoms like frequent nighttime urination or difficulty sleeping can indicate urinary system dysfunction. By applying targeted pressure to the spine, abdomen, and pubic area, we can help restore proper function.
How Pelvic Problems Affect Intimate Life
Piotr: Both men and women can experience reduced physical sensations as a result of a poorly functioning pelvis. If it is not solely a mental problem, our therapists are available to assist as well. By improving local blood circulation and controlling nerves, it is possible to eliminate the causes of erectile dysfunction or reduced physical sexual sensation, as the genital organs are innervated similarly to the urinary system. Using manual therapy for the pelvis, our specialists improve local blood flow and nerve control, which can restore intimate function.
How Long Does Pelvic Floor Therapy Take?
Ewa: Typically, we require six visits to evaluate treatment effectiveness. Resolving pelvic floor problems may take more than one or two visits, especially for chronic conditions. Many patients delay starting physical therapy for pelvic issues, hoping symptoms will resolve on their own. Early intervention improves outcomes.
Piotr: To help patients assess whether therapy is suitable, we offer a free consultation. This ensures that individuals understand their options and the potential benefits of pelvic floor therapy.
Why Seek Pelvic Floor Therapy?
Ignoring pelvic dysfunction or pelvic floor problems can lead to chronic pain, incontinence, intimacy issues, and reduced quality of life. Modern manual therapy for the pelvis, including Fascial Counterstrain therapy, provides safe, effective, and non-invasive solutions.
If you suffer from pelvic floor pain or discomfort, call us or click here to schedule your COMPLIMENTARY CONSULTATION with one of our experienced therapists.
