Important Concepts Regarding Pelvic Physiotherapy ACT AU Residents May Find Beneficial

By Stephen Lewis


Some people end up with weak muscles in the pelvic region because of one reason or another. Weak muscles are usually attributed to straining when passing stool or on urination. Pregnant women are common victims of pelvic muscle compromise because of the strain the loaded womb puts on the urinary bladder. These are some of the critical issues regarding pelvic physiotherapy ACT AU residents need to address.

Leakage of stool or urine is the most common presentation in the case where muscles of the pelvis are compromised. These are medically termed fecal and urinary incontinence respectively. Such symptoms are aggravated by strenuous manoeuvres such as during coughing or when someone laughs out loud.

Other than incontinence, which is usually caused by muscle weakness, patients may have symptoms related to excessive tightness of muscles. A person may have difficulty passing stool or strain during urination. Additionally, they may complain of increased frequency, urgency, intermittency or even incomplete emptying of their bladder. Others may experience pain during sexual intercourse.

Muscles in the pelvis are positioned in such a way that they cement the pelvis and structures therein. They typically attach to the bony pelvis on the sides, front and back. Key organs in this region include the womb, bladder, prostate in men and the rectum. Urethra and vagina are also wrapped in muscle to ensure they function as desired. Release of urine or stool usually works in a controlled manner as long as the muscular structures are intact.

The first step towards restoring pelvic muscle integrity is to try and find out which muscles require therapy. This can be effectively done by the affected individual at home. If they are unable to do so, then they can consult a pelvic physiotherapist to provide guidance. In the home setting, privacy is needed in order to increase the chances of success. In this case the individual is able to fully relax and find out which muscles need treatment.

It is recommended that the person gets a comfortable couch where they can lie down or sit in order to perform certain exercises. These exercises are meant to subconsciously identify the abnormal tissues and subject them to the necessary form of therapy. Usually, the individual is required to contract and relax perineal muscles in a rhythmic manner until they come to a discovery. In simple words, they are supposed to hold the tissues in place as if trying to prevent passage of wind or stool. If the issue is in the urinary system, the patient has to pass and hold urine in turn. Care should be taken not to overdo this as it may result in further weakness.

If the individual is unable to do this on their own in the home setting, they can seek the services of a professional to take them through a step-wise procedure. The professional will take time to know the patient in terms of underlying conditions and how long the conditions have been in existence. The therapist will also examine the area to ascertain which tissues are impaired. Basic examination procedures should include a digital rectal examination, and a vaginal exam for women.

Pelvic physiotherapy is also indicated for various other conditions such as organ prolapse, pain during sexual intercourse and irritable bowel syndrome among others. The number of sessions required varies depending on the severity and the exact nature of the problem. Patience is a key requirement to the success of the exercises.




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