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Overactive Pelvic Floor

An overactive pelvic floor can cause a range of uncomfortable symptoms, but you don't have to navigate this alone. The LBPC team is here to offer expert guidance and treatment. Contact us today to start your path to relief and improved pelvic health.

What is an Overactive Pelvic Floor?

An overactive pelvic floor refers to a condition where the muscles in the pelvic floor are tight, tense, or spasming more than normal. This can lead to various symptoms such as pelvic pain, urinary urgency and frequency, difficulty with bowel movements, pain during intercourse, and even issues with posture and muscle coordination in the pelvic area.

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Think of it like muscles that are constantly clenched or in a state of high alert, which can disrupt normal pelvic function and lead to discomfort or pain

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Overactive pelvic floor muscles are commonly associated with painful bladder syndrome or interstitial cystitis. These conditions involve inflammation and irritation of the bladder wall, which can contribute to pelvic muscle tension and exacerbate symptoms.

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What Causes an Overactive Pelvic Floor?

An overactive pelvic floor can be caused by a variety of factors, and understanding these can help in managing and treating the condition. Here are some common causes:

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Childbirth: The strain and trauma from childbirth can lead to pelvic floor muscle tension.

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Surgery: Pelvic surgeries can alter muscle function and lead to increased muscle tension.

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Chronic Stress or Anxiety: These conditions can cause muscle clenching and tension, including in the pelvic floor.

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Injury: Trauma to the pelvic area can result in muscle overactivity.

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Postural Issues: Poor posture can contribute to increased tension in the pelvic floor muscles.

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Pelvic Inflammatory Conditions: Conditions such as endometriosis or interstitial cystitis can lead to chronic pelvic floor muscle tension.

 

Understanding these causes can help in developing a treatment plan that addresses the root of the problem, providing relief and improving overall pelvic health.

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How do you experience an Overactive Pelvic Floor?

Sometimes, these muscles can get a bit too active, which might show up as feelings of tightness or tension in your pelvic area. You might notice discomfort—like a persistent ache or sharp pains—that can bother you more at certain times of the day or during activities.

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You might also experience urges to pee that feel sudden and strong, making you feel like you always need to rush to the bathroom. And you might find yourself going more often than usual, even if you haven't been drinking more fluids.

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Sometimes it's hard to fully relax the pelvic muscles, which can affect everyday activities like going to the bathroom comfortably or enjoying intimate moments, potentially causing discomfort or pain during sex.

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You might also notice issues with your bowels, like constipation or feeling like you can't fully empty your bowels. And tight pelvic floor muscles can mess with your posture and movement, causing stiffness or discomfort in your hips or lower back.

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Everyone's experience is unique, but these are common signs that your pelvic floor might need a little extra attention.

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How can we help?

As physiotherapists, we can help manage and alleviate your symptoms associated with an overactive pelvic floor through a personalised treatment plan. Here’s how we can work together:

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Assessment and Diagnosis: We will conduct a thorough assessment to understand the specific areas of tension and identify any underlying causes.

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Manual Therapy: Techniques such as myofascial release and trigger point therapy can help relax and lengthen the pelvic floor muscles.

 

Relaxation Techniques: Teaching you relaxation exercises and breathing techniques to reduce muscle tension and stress.

 

Exercise Therapy: Guiding you through gentle stretching and strengthening exercises to improve overall pelvic floor function.

 

Education and Advice: Providing information on posture, daily activities, and lifestyle changes that can help manage symptoms and prevent recurrence.

 

Supportive Devices: If necessary, recommending supportive devices or tools to aid in muscle relaxation and symptom relief.

 

By working together, we can develop a comprehensive plan to manage your symptoms effectively, improve your pelvic floor function, and enhance your quality of life. Don't hesitate to reach out if you have any questions or need further assistance!

Start your journey to a healthier pelvic floor — schedule your appointment with us now.

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