Definition - What does Pelvic Floor mean?
The pelvic floor is an anatomical structure below the abdomen consisting of connective soft tissue including fascia, ligaments, muscles, nerves, and tendons responsible for physiological functions related to digestive and urogenital organs. Regular bladder control, bowel movements, and reproductive cycles in women are often telltale factors that the pelvic floor components are normal. However, men and women can experience pelvic floor dysfunctions with concomitant symptoms such as constipation, bowel and/or urine incontinence, uterine/rectal prolapse (displacement), and generalized pelvic pain and pressure.
SureHire explains Pelvic Floor
In medicine, physicians lack educational resources to convey to their patients about pelvic floor rehabilitation, however, physiotherapy treatment is available. Pelvic rehabilitation programs are tailored to helping clients adopt practical techniques that minimize pain, increase circulation, and enhance overall strength. Common remedial applications can include controlled breathing, hip/girdle musculature exercises, and practicing good nutrition habits.
In many instances, urinary incontinence is a leading form of pelvic floor dysfunctions attributed to weak or strained muscles where urine evacuation is persistent. A majority of cases affect women with sensations of frequent urination causing embarrassment and episodes of discomfort/pain. Kegel exercises are a soluble physiotherapy alternative that target biomechanical functions of pelvic floor muscles in both men and women experiencing bladder, bowel, and/or uterine (in women) issues. Individuals may be referred to a physical therapist who can relay succinct instructions about the correct technique while deterring bad form.
Pelvic floor dysfunctions can also interfere with job performance and productivity in the workplace. Urinary incontinence, for example, compels individuals to take repetitive bathroom breaks, which incidentally, compounds stress factors imposed by demanding work conditions. However, employees can receive possible latitude in using the bathroom as needed if a doctor confirms the case with legitimate medical evidence.
