Oftentimes, it is misunderstood that pelvic floor = Kegel exercises. However, this is not always true. In fact, if performed without indication, it may increase the symptoms!
Here’s why!
Pelvic floor muscles have certain muscle dynamic properties like resting tone of the muscle, strength and endurance. These properties can be affected due to various reasons like stress, pain around pelvic area, physical nature of the work/strenuous physical activities, pre/post/during pregnancy, breathing pattern etc.
Oftentimes, pelvic pain is associated with increased tone and tension in pelvic floor muscles. With constant tension and tightness in the pelvic floor muscles, there can be difficulty relaxing these muscles and can result in fatigue, weakness and pain. After an assessment, your physiotherapist will be able to guide you on how to effectively relax your pelvic floor muscles using breathing techniques.
This is commonly referred to as Reverse Kegels!
NEXT, we can strengthen your pelvic floor muscles using the Kegel’s exercises. The timing and coordination is the key when it comes to performing Kegel’s exercises.
And let’s quickly talk about how important breathing is in your in pelvic floor muscle rehabilitation!
Did you know that your breathing pattern can affect pelvic floor muscle tone and tension?
The diaphragm is an important muscle that controls your breathing. As we breathe in, the diaphragm descends and so does your pelvic floor. As we breathe out, the diaphragm elevates and so does your pelvic floor! A shallow or breath holding pattern of breathing can therefore prevent the pelvic floor from relaxing and can cause dysfunction of increased tension giving rise to the symptoms above!
So pause. Deep breathe in. Hold. And let it all out.
Okay, we can continue.
Think you have an overactive pelvis? Need some tips on relaxing your pelvic floor?
Get in touch with our pelvic floor physiotherapist and get yourself a detailed assessment and answers to your questions!
We are currently servicing pelvic floor physiotherapy at our Binbrook, upper Wentworth and Hamilton Mountain locations!
Dial (226) 797-0377 for a free discovery call with one of our Pelvic Floor Physiotherapists.