Pelvic Floor Dysfunction & Pelvic Pain

Millions of Americans are suffering from pelvic floor dysfunction, yet for most, the problem goes unidentified and untreated. Statistics reveal that 1 out of every 5 Americans (from every age group) will suffer from some form of pelvic floor dysfunction. Over 30 million Americans suffer from urinary incontinence alone (AHCPR). Pelvic floor dysfunction is not just a female problem, men and children can have pelvic floor dysfunction as well. Pelvic floor dysfunction refers to a wide range of problems that occur when the muscles of the pelvic floor are weak, tight, or there is an impairment of the sacroiliac joint, low back, coccyx and/or hip joint. The tissues surrounding the pelvic organs may have increased or decreased sensitivity and/or irritation resulting in pelvic pain. Many times, the underlying cause of pelvic pain is difficult to determine. These conditions may be due to infections (usually undiagnosed), pregnancy or childbirth, poor posture from chronic low back or sacroiliac dysfunction, trauma such as a fall onto the buttocks or tailbone, may be a result of surgery and at times are of unknown origin. The pelvic floor is made up of muscles and other tissues that form a sling from the pubic bone to the tailbone (coccyx). They assist in supporting the abdominal and pelvic organs, and help to control bladder, bowel and sexual activity. (See picture below)

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Patients are referred to us with one or more of the following problems: Disorders of the bladder IC (Interstitial Cystitis) : Also known as painful bladder syndrome (PBS) Urethral Syndrome: Urethral pain, burning and sensitivity Prostatitis: Inflammation of the prostate Prostatodynia : Painful prostate Urinary Incontinence: Urge, stress and mixed incontinence Urinary Retention: Difficulty emptying bladder Disorders of the bowel IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome) Constipation: Difficulty eliminating feces (bowel movement) Feeling of fullness/abdominal pain, pressure, discomfort, and bloating Fecal Incontinence: Involuntary loss of any fecal matter Difficulty controlling flatulence/gas Rectal Prolapse Sexual Dysfunctions Levator Ani Syndrome: refers to pain, pressure, or ache in the sacrum, coccyx, rectum, and/or vagina caused by unusual tension in the levator ani muscles (pelvic floor muscles). Pudendal neuralgia Dyspareunia: Pain that occurs during penetration of the vagina Vulvodynia Vulvar vestibulitis Vaginismus : Involuntary muscle contraction of the pelvic floor muscles during attempted penetration Lichens sclerosus Lichens planus Coccygodynia : Pain in and around the region of the tailbone Post-Surgery: hysterectomy, hernia repair, laparoscopy, cesarean section, appendectomy, prostatectomy, and episiotomy. Treatment may include: External and internal soft tissue mobilization, myofascial and trigger point release, visceral manipulation, connective tissue manipulation, deep tissue massage Biofeedback, electrical stimulation, and transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) Heat and cold therapy Education Home exercise program

I will admit I was skeptical when my physician suggested I give Mitzi Gibson and the Advanced Physical Therapy Center a try for my urge and stress incontinence. I had previously had bladder surgery and was taking Detrol when I saw my physician. I now feel success and a whole lot of confidence after working with Mitzi and Lori. It is so wonderful to feel "normal" - not having to find every close bathroom or worry if I will be able to make it home. Thanks to Advanced Physical Therapy Center I now have my life back and under control. KR

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