Complete Pelvic Health

Anatomy of the Pelvic Floor

When speaking of the pelvic floor, we are not just referring to the 3 layers of muscles and ligaments that connect the pelvis from the pubic symphysis in the front, to the coccyx in the back, and from side to side. As with anything in the body, those muscles  do not exist or function in isolation. They are suspended between the bones of the hip, pelvis, and spine. There are sheets of connective tissue, called fascia, a rich blood supply, and dense innervation by nerves. In and among the pelvic floor muscles and associated structures, are glands, sphincters, and organs. The area between the vocal folds and the pelvic floor, including the diaphragm and abdominals, work harmoniously together, each one a separate melody that works with the other systems to orchestrate physical and emotional health. It is important to note that both men and women have pelvic floor muscles.

Functions of the Pelvic Floor

The pelvic floor has a major role in support of the digestive, reproductive, and urinary systems. A healthy pelvic floor important for bowel, bladder and sexual functions, and contributes to trunk stability and mobility. If you have ever had a baby, experienced pelvic pain, had pain with sex, leaked urine when laughing or running, have abdominal pain associated with scar tissue, have a sense of an organ falling out, or separation of abdominals after pregnancy, your pelvic floor may not be functioning optimally and may benefit from an assessment with a pelvic floor therapist.

Many women become more familiar with their pelvic floor after pregnancy. Pregnancy is not the only condition that affects these muscles. Men and women may be affected by cancer treatments, through the normal aging process, surgeries, and dysfunction in other systems.

About My Treatment Philosophy

I understand that we are addressing parts of the body not usually openly talked about. I would like to make having the conversation easier and remove any feelings of shame or embarrassment. My goal is to give you the education, strategies, and techniques that will help you understand whatever has brought you to therapy, minimize or eliminate its impact on your life, and help you feel good in your body. Healing is a joint approach. At the heart of it, are your goals, and we will work together to reach them.