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If you suffer from a pelvic floor disorder, you are not alone. Approximately one in every five Americans suffers from pelvic floor dysfunctions, most of which go undiagnosed and untreated. But there is help. Pelvic floor disorders can be effectively treated with Salt Lake Regional’s specialized physical therapy program.
Common Types of Pelvic Floor Disorders
Pelvic floor muscles, which form a “sling” or “hammock” across the opening of the pelvis, keep all of the pelvic organs — including the bladder, bowel, rectum and urethra — in place so that the organs can function correctly. In women, these muscles also support the uterus and play an important role in vaginal childbirth. Pelvic floor dysfunctions occur when the pelvic muscles and connective tissues are weakened or damaged. Common pelvic floor disorders include:
- Urinary incontinence (lack of bladder control).
- Fecal incontinence (lack of bowel control).
- Pelvic organ prolapse (uterus, bladder and/or bowel drop onto the vagina, causing a bulge through the vaginal canal).
- Pathological and organic disorders (interstitial cystitis, fibroids, endometriosis, etc.).
Common Causes of Pelvic Floor Disorders
The following may weaken or damage pelvic muscles:
- Childbirth or menopause.
- Obesity.
- Pelvic surgery.
- Heavy lifting.
- Chronic coughing.
- Poor posture.
- Radiation treatments.
Common Symptoms of Pelvic Floor Disorders
If you suffer from pelvic floor disorders, you may experience one or more of the following symptoms:
- Urinary or fecal incontinence.
- Pelvic pressure, pain or heaviness.
- Pain in the back, vagina, rectum, tailbone, thigh or lower abdomen.
- Constipation or painful bowel movement.
- Painful intercourse.
Effective Outpatient Treatments
At Salt Lake Regional, our specially trained physical therapists effectively treat pelvic floor disorders, restore proper organ function and enhance your quality of life. This is performed through therapeutic manipulation of pelvic tissues, muscles, ligaments and joints. Physical therapy helps to increase strength, improve range of motion, release tension and relieve pain. Treatment programs may include:
- Muscular reeducation:
biofeedback therapy (to measure muscle tension) and electrical stimulation (to stimulate muscles) retrains muscles to help you regain control.
- Soft-tissue mobilization:
deep tissue massage loosens muscles and tissues, returning them to their proper position. At-home massage techniques also help reduce pain.
- Nutritional counseling:
bladder-friendly foods and fluids help to promote a healthy digestive tract and reduce irritation.
- Physical activity and exercising:
effective physical exercises can help retrain muscles, improve strength and relieve pain.
For more information about Salt Lake Regional’s pelvic floor therapy services, please call (801) 350-4593 (Salt Lake City) or (801) 748-1861 (Sandy).
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