Everything in the body is connected. By taking a holistic view of the body, it is possible to improve parts as well as the whole. The pelvic floor and core provide a basis for the trunk of the body, and can affect other parts of the body in surprising ways.
At Body Restoration Physical Therapy, we use safe and effective hands-on techniques to address pelvic floor dysfunction, including John F. Barnes Myofascial Release. This therapy addresses adhesions and injuries to the fascia, which run throughout the body. Releasing “stuck” areas in the fascia allows the natural flow and movement of the body, eliminating tightness, pain, and restrictions in flexibility and mobility.
How does the pelvic floor affect the body overall?
As we know that the pelvic floor provides support for the organs of the lower abdomen, it is no surprise that pelvic floor dysfunction can cause incontinence, constipation, back pain, and sexual dysfunction. It may be surprising, however, to discover the connection between the pelvic floor and the jaw, or that studies have shown that patients suffering from Fibromyalgia find relief with Myofascial Release.
Similarly, stress can affect the pelvic floor in ways we may not immediately think of. Tension and stress can often cause headaches or pain and tightness in the neck and shoulders; that same tension can cause tightness in the pelvic floor which leads to dysfunction and discomfort.
If the pelvic floor supports and is connected to so much of the body, how do we improve and support it?
Easy ways to strengthen the pelvic floor
Read on for easy ways to strengthen and tone the pelvic floor, setting the stage for improved overall wellness.
1) For a healthy pelvic floor (and body), drink water
So simple, and so important! Be sure you’re drinking enough water every day. Hydration supports all aspects of bodily function, and drinking enough water can help treat or ward off UTIs (urinary tract infections), as well as be supportive in treating other pelvic complaints. Good hydration keeps the body running right, and should be a top priority.
A good rule of thumb for water intake for adults is to drink half your weight in ounces – meaning that a 150lb adult should be consuming 75 ounces of water a day.
2) Choose the right exercises to strengthen your pelvic floor
Gentle stretches and yoga can be a simple and effective addition to your pelvic floor strengthening journey. Simple stretches for pelvic floor health is a great place to start, with 6 gentle stretches that require very little time and no specialized equipment.
Remember, you’re not looking for a heavy workout. You’re looking for targeted movements that strengthen and stretch the muscles of the pelvic floor.
3) Consider physical therapy to heal the pelvic floor
Pelvic floor physical therapy is a safe and effective treatment for many complaints related to the pelvic floor and pelvic floor dysfunction. These may include sexual dysfunction, incontinence, pain in the pelvic area, irritable bowel syndrome, diastasis recti, lower back pain, and more. Pelvic floor dysfunction can happen after injury or surgery, and is a common (but not commonly addressed) postpartum complaint.
Because pelvic floor dysfunction is considered personal and even a bit taboo, many people suffer with their symptoms needlessly.
Body Restoration Physical Therapy, located in Roslyn Heights in Long Island, New York, specializes in pelvic floor physical therapy and John F. Barnes Myofascial Release.
Our FAQ page can answer common questions about pelvic floor physical therapy and our convenient Nassau County location, and you are welcome to contact us with questions or to book your first appointment.