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Physiotherapy & Sports Injuries
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Physiotherapy & Exercise

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Pain and injury can happen to anyone.  Most people have at least one injury or episode of pain in their lifetime. As a result, this leads them to seek professional help.  The most common types of injuries are related to muscle, bone and joints.  However, underlying diseases can also result in pain that leads people to seek Physiotherapy & Exercise.

What are the different types of
Physiotherapy & Exercise available?

  • Physiotherapy
    • Physiotherapists use their knowledge of the body to provide Physiotherapy & Exercise treatment. In addition, they assess, diagnose and treat symptoms from injuries.
  • Massage Therapy
    • Massage therapy is the manipulation of soft tissues. For example: muscles, connective tissues, tendons, ligaments and joints.
    • Massage therapy reduces pain associated with everyday stressors. For example, muscular over-use and chronic pain conditions.
  • Osteopathy
    • Osteopathy views the body as a unit. Above all, they believe that healthy tissues require proper circulation of our body’s fluids
    • Osteopaths use hands on treatments to assess and restore balance through our body’s systems. For example: musculoskeletal, cardiovascular and neurological,

Different Types of Physiotherapy & Exercise

There are many Physiotherapy & Exercise options to help with recovery from an injury. For example:

Electrical modalities
Electrical Modalities
  • Manual therapy
    • Soft tissue releases
    • Joint mobilizations
    • Joint manipulations
    • Passive stretching 
  • Electrical modalities
    • Ultrasound
    • Laser
    • Interferential Current
    • TENS
    • Shockwave
  • Decompression therapies
    • Mechanical lumbar traction
    • Mechanical cervical traction
    • Inversion tables
  • Alternative treatments
    • Acupuncture
    • Cupping
  • Supportive products
    • Braces
    • Taping
Meniscal Injuries
Custom Knee Unloader Brace for Meniscal Injuries


How do I know what treatment is right for me?

It is hard to choose what kind of treatment to try. In other words, deciding what would be most effective for treating your pain.  This is especially true if this is your first time experiencing an injury and/or pain. 

A lot of people end up trying what they are familiar with.  For example, if you have had previous injuries and had Physiotherapy & Exercise for those injuries, you would know what worked.  There is a personal preference regarding which Physiotherapy & Exercise treatments work best for us.

What Physiotherapy & Exercise provides the best overall results?

Physiotherapy & Exercise
Physiotherapy & Exercise

The one type of treatment that is the most beneficial is Physiotherapy & Exercise. This is mainly because our bodies are built to move.  There is truth in the saying, “If you don’t use it, you’ll lose it.” 

Exercise has positive results for almost all injuries .  The type of Physiotherapy & Exercise that is best will depend on the injury.  There is no universal approach to exercise that works for everyone.  This is because we are all built differently. However, what works for one person doesn’t mean it will work for another. 


What type of exercises are most beneficial?

  • Muscle and bone injuries will require some form of mobility. Most importantly, progressive strengthening exercises. 
  • Nervous system diseases such as strokes or Parkinson’s Disease will require more balance and functional exercises. 
  • Respiratory illnesses like COPD or emphysema will need exercises that improve and strengthen the muscles of breathing and posture
  • Concussion rehabilitation will need visual and vestibular re-training exercises. 
  • Conditions such as diabetes, cancer, cardiovascular disease, autoimmune conditions need a combination Physiotherapy & Exercise. Therefore, cardiovascular and strengthening exercises have been shown to be most effective in managing their condition. 


Which healthcare professional can prescribe Physiotherapy & Exercise?

It is up to the health care professional to assess your condition and prescribe the correct exercises for you.  Registered Physiotherapists are experts in the assessment of all types of injuries.  They will be able to give the most appropriate treatment for you. As a result, there is always a strong emphasis on exercise and promoting activity. 

A Physiotherapist will be able to develop a specific exercise program for you. They will factor in your age, fitness level and ability to do the exercises at home.  The physiotherapist will be able to guide you with adding exercises into your routine so that it becomes a habit.

Why is exercise therapy an important part of treatment?

A lot of times, people who are inactive think that exercise therapy refers to working out in a gym.  Exercise therapy can refer to any exercise that you enjoy doing. For example: stretching, riding a bike, swimming, yoga and lifting weights.

Pain or Fear of Injury

If pain or fear of injury is preventing you from exercise, seeing a Physiotherapist can help get the process started.  Firstly, a Physiotherapist can assess where the source of the pain or weakness is coming from. Secondly, they start giving the most appropriate exercises to overcome those restrictions. 

Subsequently, with effort, consistency and time, you can see the difference that exercise therapy can provide. As a result, this will lead you to include activity into your everyday life.  Feeling confident with your progress will help lead you to seek out similar active programs in your community.

In Conclusion

Exercise should always be a part of the treatment plan.  With an aging population, there needs to more emphasis placed on Physiotherapy & Exercise. As a result, this will prevent weakness related to ageing and frailty.  Strength and ongoing exercise will allow you to maintain your function and independence as you age. 

If you or someone you know would benefit from Physiotherapy & Exercise, please call today. At PhysioNow Mississauga and PhysioNow Etobicoke, we are ready to help!

Exercise
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Elderly Falls Prevention

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Elderly Falls Prevention

Elderly Falls prevention is a huge societal issue.  It affects many aspects of society including health care spending and caregiver stress.  As a result injuries and effects from a fall can be very serious, both for the patient and the family involved.

Elderly Falls Prevention

Characteristics of the elderly Population

There are some who have been able to maintain their mobility and strength and continue to stay healthy and active.

Then there are those who are struggling with their day to day activities due to weakness and frailty.  

There are also those who fall somewhere in between.

 Those individuals who are either at their most frail or heading towards that level of function are at most risk of falling.  

It is important to describe why the elderly are more at risk of falling than the general population. Elderly Falls prevention is extremely important for all of these reasons!


Causes of Weakness & Frailty in the Elderly

The reasons for weakness, loss of function/mobility and frailty are variable and may include:

  • There may be a strong genetic component like osteoarthritis
  • Disease/Conditions
    • Any disease that affects your strength and/or mobility may place you at increased risk of falling
    • For Example,this could include Osteoporosis, Parkinson’s Disease, Multiple Sclerosis or Stroke
  • Injury
    • Any previous or recent injury may affect your ability to walk safely
    • This is especially true if you did not receive the appropriate treatment for an injury
    • This may result in lingering problems that continue to worsen with time
    • Examples would include previous falls and fractures
  • Medications
    • A lot of seniors are on a variety of medications for different health issues. As an example, these may include cardiac medication, blood pressure, cholesterol, diabetes, etc.
    • Sometimes certain combinations of medications may produce symptoms like dizziness and confusion. As a result, that may place the senior at more risk of falling.
  • Inactivity
    • Some seniors have developed loss of mobility, strength and balance due to a mostly sedentary lifestyle
  • Dementia
    • Dementia refers to the decline in memory and other thinking processes
    • As dementia progresses, these limitations may affect their ability to take care of themselves
    • Patients with dementia may forget to take their medications . In addition, they may hurt themselves and not remember that they are injured
    • As a result, these types of changes can lead to an increased risk of falls

What happens if we fail at Elderly Falls Prevention?

Outcomes of Falls

Falls pose a severe threat to the health and well being of this population.  Potential injuries with a fall are the most concerning:

  • Sprains/Strains
  • Fractures
    • Hip fractures are the most serious consequence of falling for seniors with osteoporosis  
    • Patients are at increased risk of early death for many years after a hip fracture
  • Joint Dislocations
  • Head trauma
  • Concussions


Psychological Impact of Falls on the Elderly

There is lots of research out there stating that having falls increases the fear of falling.  

An individual who falls and hurts themselves does not want to go through it again.  

This would be especially true for those who suffered major injuries like a fracture or head trauma.  

For some the wish not to want to fall again becomes a real fear.  

This fear would then prevent them from trying to be more active so that they don’t hurt themselves again.

However, limiting their activity places them at increased risk of falling because it contributes to more loss of strength, flexibility and overall fitness.  So, it becomes a vicious cycle.


Psychological Impact of Falls on Caregivers

  • A lot of the time, falls may result in hospitalizations or require a lot of caregiver support.
  • This is because falls for seniors can cause a variety of injuries.  
  • This can put a lot of pressure on the family involved causing emotional and financial stress.
  • For example, if family members need to take time off work to provide support or if they need to hire someone to provide one on one care.
  • Therefore, it is important to do as much elderly falls prevention as possible to avoid the negative consequences of these injuries.


Societal Impact of Falls

Issues with falls or fear of falling are also important for health care spending. Falls cost the health care system millions of dollars in ER visits, hospitalizations and surgeries.  Reducing the occurrence of falls will therefore save a lot of money. The goal is for Seniors to remain in their own homes.


Treatment options for Elderly Falls Prevention

  • It is important to try and interrupt the cycle of falls.  
  • The best way to do that is to promote exercise and an active lifestyle.  
  • Being active allows seniors to regain their confidence and be more mobile. This is the best thing for their health.
  • This is especially important as they get into the later years of their life when joint stiffness, muscle weakness and other age-related changes are more prominent.  
  • Seniors who do not participate in regular exercise place themselves at risk of having a poorer quality of life.
  • Activity is also very important in the management of a lot of the health conditions that affect the elderly population.  
  • Research consistently shows the importance of exercise in the treatment of arthritis, diabetes, fibromyalgia, osteoporosis and neurological conditions like stroke and Parkinson’s Disease to name a few.


Places to Receive Elderly Falls Prevention

There are lots of options available in the community for the elderly population to get active and work towards preventing falls.  

  • Seniors’ exercise programs at community centres
  • Mall walking groups
  • Falls prevention programs through hospitals and rehabilitation centres
  • Working with a registered physiotherapist in a community clinic
  • Pickle Ball is also a very popular activity for seniors
Sample Exercise for Elderly Falls Prevention


Benefits of working with a Physiotherapist from PhysioNowB

Seeing a Registered Physiotherapist in a community clinic is a great way to work on falls prevention.  The programs offered through community centres and hospitals tend to be done with a group of participants.

Seeing a Registered Physiotherapist in a clinic setting like PhysioNow would allow for a more one on one treatment. This would allow the falls prevention exercises and education to be tailored specifically to that person.

  • A Registered Physiotherapist will have the experience to assess the risk of falling.
  • The Physiotherapist will provide guidance towards exercises and activities that are safe for the senior to do.
  • They can check the range of motion and strength limitations.
  • The Physiotherapist can then provide a specific exercise program that targets those problem areas.
  • In addition, the Physiotherapist can supervise the exercise program in the clinic. This will be a safe and controlled environment.
  • Lastly, the Physiotherapist can progress the exercises as the senior shows improvements.  
  • As a result, this will ensure that the senior is doing what they need to do to build up their endurance and tolerance for activity.

How wills Elderly Falls Prevention Treatment Help?

As the senior learns to get more active and mobile, they will improve their risk of falling.  In addition, they will also gain confidence in their ability to take care of themselves. Most importantly, having improved strength and mobility will allow them to do more with their loved ones. As a result, they will enjoy the later years of their life. Lastly, elderly falls prevention strategies will allow seniors to live independently.

If you or someone you know is afraid of falling or feeling unsteady on their feet, Call PhysioNow today!. We have Physiotherapy Clinics in Mississauga, Etobicoke and Oakville to serve you.

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Ankle Sprain

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An ankle sprain is a common Sports injury which happens when the ankle stretches more than normal. This over stretch weakens the ligaments that hold the bones together. Ligaments are the fibrous bands that hold the ankle joint together.

The ankle consists of 3 joints. The joints are between the lower end of two long bones in your leg. They are called the Tibia and Fibula. They attach to the two bones in your feet called the Talus and calcanium.

Together with the muscles and ligaments, the bony ends on the sides of your long bones called malleoli provide stability to the joint. The ankle is least stable when the foot is down. Most stability is provided by the ligaments. As a result, the majority of ankle sprain injuries happen when your foot is in this position.

There are two types of sprains. An inversion injury happens when the foot rolls inwards. This causes injury to the ligaments on the outside of the ankle called lateral ligaments. Most of the time a ligament called anterior talofibular ligament (ATFL) is injured. The ATFL is the weakest of the lateral ligaments.   

An eversion injury happens when the foot is rolled outwards. This causes injury to the ligaments on the inside called the Deltoid ligament. As the medial ligament requires a greater force to be injured, these sprains always take longer to rehabilitate.

Risk Factors

Based on the severity of symptoms, an ankle sprain is classified into 3 grades.

If you have a previous history of ankle sprain, you will have more chances of re injury. This happens because the strength and integrity of the muscles and ligaments around the ankle joint will be affected.

The other risk factors are poor balance, sudden change in direction , age, poor condition of playing surface and inadequate warm up. Lastly, inappropriate footwear and a lack of external ankle support in case of recent injuries can cause increased risk.

Grade 1 – Mild swelling and tenderness with little impact on function.

Grade 2- Moderate swelling, pain and impact on function. You will have reduced range of movement and instability of the joint.

Grade 3 -Large swelling, loss of function and marked instability at the joint.

Symptoms

Symptoms of Ankle Sprain

Pain, bruising, swelling and difficulty to weight bear are the initial symptoms. As a result, pain is usually worst in the first two or three days. The location of pain indicates which ligament is injured.

In severe injuries where there is complete rupture of a ligament, you will feel instability in the ankle joint. If you have suffered from a severe ankle sprain, there is a chance of associated fractures. As a result, you may require an x ray to determine the possibility of broken bones.

Physiotherapy Treatment

Physiotherapy Treatment for Ankle Sprain

Your physiotherapist will be able to assess the possibility of some of the common fractures using a special palpation method.  The other aims of ankle examination are to check for any instability. Lastly, we look for loss of range of motion, reduced strength, reduced proprioception and associated injuries.

Exercises for Ankle Sprain

Initial treatment is focussed on Protection and optimal loading. That means the right amount of activity to stimulate healing. In addition, Ice, compression and elevation(POLICE) are also recommended in the first 48 hours after injury.


Protection of the joint?

 Taping, bracing, or crutches if needed. In addition, we also recommend the use of an aircast boot. As a result, this will restrict movement and allow for more rapid healing. PhysioNow stocks aircast boots in all sizes at the Applewood Office.


Optimal Loading ?

Optimal Loading

Avoid activities which cause pain. Minimize the amount of walking you do. Use of crutches, air cast boots, braces or taping  may be advised by your Physiotherapist on assessment.


Ice

 It is recommended that you Do Apply ice cubes or ice packs in a damp towel up to 15 minutes every 3 hours for the first 48 hours when you are awake. Do not apply ice directly to your skin. Please, Do not apply ice if you have cold intolerance due to any medical condition.

We do not recommend the use heat in the early phase of injury.


Compression

Compression involves using a bandage from toes to just above the ankle joint. Make sure that the compression does not cause more pain or restrict the circulation. If you are in doubt, your Physiotherapist can teach you how to apply the bandage in the early phase of injury.

Compression


Elevation

Elevate your injured leg above your heart level using pillows while resting.

Ultrasound therapy, Laser acupuncture, taping, bracing, and exercises are used to reduce pain and inflammation. In addition, manual therapy and exercises are used for improving the range of motion, strength and joint position sense (proprioception).

Once all the movements are pain free and there is adequate muscle strength and proprioception, functional exercises can be started. These exercises will be directed to your normal Sports Activities and Activities of Daily Living.

Bracing for Ankle Sprain

Healing Time for Ankle Sprain


  The healing of ligaments takes about 6 weeks, but also depends on the severity of the injury and other medical problems which you might have. Consequently, everyone recovers from the injury at different rates. As the ligament is healing it is important to do specific exercises advised by your Physiotherapist to improve flexibility and strength.

It is very important to complete the whole rehabilitation process. If you do this, it will reduce the chances of re injury. In conclusion, we want to get you back to your pre-accident Sports Activities as soon as possible!

How to reduce the risk of Ankle Sprain

To reduce the risk of ankle sprain, make sure that you:

Warm up before exercise or activity.

Cool down with slow stretches after the exercise or activity

Wear supportive shoes

Take extra care when you walk or exercise on slippery or uneven surfaces.

 Adequate stretching and strengthening of your muscles if you have a history of previous injury.

Give enough time to recover between training sessions.

 Use the right sports gear.

 Taping or use of brace in competitive games if you had a recent ankle sprain.


How to book an appointment with a Physiotherapist at PhysioNow?

Locations for PhysioNow clinics

We have four Physiotherapy clinics of which three are located in Mississauga and one is in Etobicoke. https://www.physionow.ca/locations/

You can call 289-724-0448 to book for a same day appointment with one of our highly trained Physiotherapists. Most of the time we can arrange your initial visit on the same day in a location which is nearest to you. Your initial appointment will be a one to one 40 minutes session. This appointment will be with a Physiotherapist and includes initial assessment, education and treatment.

You will have 40 minutes of follow up, which will be usually 2 to 3 sessions a week depending on the factors identified on initial assessment, treatment plan and your goals.

Call today to get started on your Physiotherapy for Ankle Sprain!

General Category, Pelvic Health, Pregnancy Mississauga

Pregnancy related Pelvic pain

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Pregnancy Related Pelvic Pain
Pregnancy Related Pelvic Pain

                        Pregnancy and Pelvic girdle pain


Pregnancy Related Pelvic Pain: Words Can Hurt

Pregnancy related Pelvic pain can create great challenges. Imagine you are 32 weeks pregnant with your first child and you start to have pain in the low back and pubic area when you change position. Pregnancy related pelvic pain can happen when you sit, stand for longer periods or when you walk. The pain makes it very difficult for you to function. As a result, you may worry about whether you can continue to work and manage your household.

Pregnancy Related Pelvic Girdle Pain: Words Can Hurt

Now imagine you have seen your health care provider and have been told that your pelvis is separating. They tell you this is because of the hormone Relaxin. Then you are told that you may need to put up with this until after you have your baby .

In addition, you are told, “it will probably get better afterwards”. “Be careful” “If it hurts, don’t do it”, “Your pubic bone is splitting”, “Your pelvis is unstable”. These are common words of advice or explanations pregnant women with pelvic girdle pain (PGP) receive from their healthcare providers. (From the Canadian Physiotherapy Association – Pain Science Division)

What is Pregnancy related pelvic girdle pain?

Pregnancy related Pelvic pain is characterized by pain around the pubic and sacroiliac joints. It can present as pain in the inner groin and adductor area, the buttocks or the sides of the hips. As a result, it is aggravated most commonly by maintaining sustained postures or changing position.

This Pelvic pain affects approximately 16-25% (Kanakaris 2011) of pregnant women, although it is very likely under reported and dismissed as a normal consequence of pregnancy.

Prognosis for Pregnancy related pelvic pain

The prognosis for pregnancy related pelvic girdle pain is very good. The majority of women improve within a few months after delivery. Only approximately 5-8.5% (Kanakaris 2011) go on to have persistent symptoms. Understanding this issue is the role of your Physiotherapist. Physiotherapists can help!

How does Breast feeding affect pregnancy related pelvic girdle pain?

Urban myths regarding breastfeeding being associated with laxity-related musculoskeletal pain should be put to rest. Suggestions to “be careful” (suggesting fragility), restrict function (reinforcing disability), to rest more and avoid activity (usually makes symptoms worse) should be set aside.

Too many women have weaned their babies early. They have done this in hopes this would alleviate their Pelvic girdle pain. This decision is based upon “helpful” advice, often from their Health Care Provider, despite the fact that there is no evidence to support this. As a result, many women are sadly advised not to lift their babies for several weeks after delivery. They are told to avoid doing this in order to avoid aggravating their Pregnancy related Pelvic girdle pain.

The good News!

The good news is that Pregnancy related Pelvic girdle pain can be managed very successfully! You can be shown effective self management programs which allow you to take control of your own care. This will allow you to become more confident, comfortable and active during your pregnancies.

Good strategies can be integrated into daily activities. As a result, it is possible to manage work, daily activities and child/baby care independently during pregnancy and postpartum.

Studies have also shown that vaginal deliveries are not only safe for women with Pregnancy related Pelvic Girdle pain, they are even preferable. Bjelland (2012) found a 2-3 fold increased risk of severe Pregnancy related Pelvic girdle pain (PGP) postpartum in women with PGP after a planned Cesarean Section.


Pregnancy related Pelvic Girdle pain Leads to a significant decrease in Quality of Life

Pregnancy related Pelvic Girdle pain Leads to a Significant Decrease in Quality of Life:

Five main categories emerged:

1. Pelvic girdle pain affects the ability to cope with every day life a) Postpartum depression- 3x more prevalent in this group of women (Gutke 2007)

2. Coping with motherhood and changing roles a) 20% avoid future pregnancies because of fear of Low Back pain and Pregnancy related pelvic girdle pain (Brynhildsen 1998)

3. Relationship between partners often reached the breaking point

4. Questioning one’s identity as defined by profession and work

5. Lack of acknowledgement of pain and disability Elden H. et al: Life’s pregnant pause of pain: Pregnant women’s experiences of pelvic girdle pain related to daily life: A Swedish Interview Study. Sexual & Reproductive Healthcare. (2013) Engeset J. et al. Pelvic girdle pain affects the whole life—a qualitative interview study in Norway on women’s experiences with pelvic girdle pain after delivery. BMC Res Notes. (2014) 7: 686.

How Can Physiotherapy help with Pregnancy related pelvic girdle Pain?

We at PhysioNow believe that Physiotherapists have a privileged role in helping to shape the experience of pregnant women with Pelvic girdle pain. Physiotherapists are in the ideal position to calm anxiety and correct misconceptions. We are happy to educate you about your condition. We explain it in a way that decreases the threat of your pain and gives you permission to move.

Exercise during pregancy
Pregancy related pelvic pain

Physical activity is now seen as a critical part of a healthy pregnancy. Pregnant women should accumulate at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity physical activity each week over a minimum of three days per week. However, being active every day is encouraged. Following the 2019 Guideline for Physical Activity throughout Pregnancy can reduce their risk of pregnancy-related illnesses such as gestational diabetes, high blood pressure and preeclampsia by 25 percent. (https://csepguidelines.ca/guidelines-for-pregnancy/)


Pain Management in Pregnancy: Joint SOGC/CSEP Clinical Practice Guidelines Nov 2018 P

  1. Muscle training for the pelvic floor (e.g., Kegel exercises) may be performed on a daily basis to reduce the risk of urinary incontinence. Physiotherapist Instruction in proper technique is recommended to obtain optimal benefits.

2. Pelvic floor muscle training with a Physiotherapist is recommended to prevent urinary incontinence during pregnancy and after delivery

3. Core stability training with a Physiotherapist is recommended to prevent and treat back and pelvic pain during and following pregnancy.

4. Pregnant women who experience lightheadedness, nausea, or feel unwell when they exercise flat on their back should modify their exercise position to avoid this position.

Supervised antenatal and postnatal pelvic floor muscle training has been shown to be protective against Urinary Incontinence(UI), particularly in high risk groups Boyle et al 2012, Stafne et al 2012, Reilly et al 2002. 

If you or someone you know suffers from Pregnancy related pelvic girdle pain, we can help! We have highly trained Physiotherapists ready to help you with this very unpleasant condition. Please call PhysioNow today to get started!

General Category, Pelvic Health, prostate surgery

The Mysterious Pelvic Floor

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Pelvic Floor Muscles


The Mysterious Pelvic Floor


What is The Mysterious Pelvic Floor??

The Pelvic Floor. Perhaps you have heard this referenced before but did not have a definitive idea of what it was. Is it just a region in the body? A single muscle? Let us explore this very important topic.

The Pelvic floor is a group of extremely important muscles located on the inside of the pelvis with a hammock like orientation. They attach to the tailbone (coccyx) at the back, the pubic bone in the front and span side to side.

Functions:

These muscles are involved in several complex functions but are often overlooked in their contribution due to their “out of sight, out of mind” presence. These functions include:

1. Bowel and Bladder Function and Support

Assists in control of the bladder and bowel (helping to prevent incontinence) in males and females. In females, the pelvic floor supports the uterus and other organs located in the pelvic cavity. This helps to prevent prolapse. Prolapse is the lowering down of a pelvic organ from its normal position. 

Contribution to our Core Muscles?

The pelvic floor acts as the base of our core together with the deep back muscles and diaphragm. Core muscles help to provide strength and stability of the spine.

Involvement in Sexual Function

The pelvic floor plays a role in sensation during sexual intercourse. As a result, dysfunction of these muscles may lead to painful intercourse. In addition, it can lead to decreased sensation, and reduced erectile function amongst other symptoms. 

Involvement in pregnancy and delivery

The strength of the pelvic floor muscles is very important during pregnancy. They help to support the extra weight of pregnancy. This can reduce certain symptoms of discomfort. They can also help to decrease the incidence of incontinence (bladder leakage), and prolapse. Additionally, they play a large role during delivery in guiding the baby’s head down the birth canal.

Symptoms of Dysfunction?

When the pelvic floor is working in harmony, it plays a big role in a variety of our functions. What happens when something is not quite balanced in the pelvic floor? Symptoms may arise. For example, they can be as a result of one of two scenarios: weakness in the pelvic floor or increased tension in the pelvic floor.

What about Kegels?

It is common to assume that any pelvic floor concerns are automatically as a result of weakness. Many people think that kegels should immediately be practiced. However, kegels are NOT always the answer! If the primary problem in the pelvic floor is tension, kegels can in fact do more harm than good. The Mysterious Pelvic Floor issues can be solved with a little Pelvic Physiotherapy!

So, what are some of the symptoms associated with pelvic floor dysfunction?

  • Urinary issues, such as the urge to urinate, incontinence (bladder leakage), urinary frequency and painful urination.
  • Bowel concerns such as constipation and incontinence
  • Lower back pain
  • Pain in the pelvic region, genitals, or rectum.
  • Discomfort during sexual intercourse for women.
  • Pressure in the pelvic region or rectum.
  • Muscle spasms in the pelvis.

What are some of the Risk Factors for issues with The Mysterious Pelvic Floor ?

  • A history of back pain
  • Previous trauma to the pelvic region such as a fall or pelvic radiotherapy
  • Ongoing constipation (i.e. for example, regularly straining to empty your bowels)
  • A chronic cough or sneeze (e.g. due to asthma, smoking or hayfever)
  • Being overweight, or having a body mass index above 25, and
  • Heavy lifting on a regular basis – either at work or at the gym most commonly
  • During pregnancy and post-partum, some factors may arise
  • Women who are going through, or have been through, menopause
  • Women who have had gynaecological surgery (e.g. hysterectomy)
  • Men who have had prostate surgery
  • Elite athletes such as gymnasts, runners or trampolinists.
What is a Pelvic Physiotherapist and How Can We Help?

What is a Pelvic Physiotherapist and How Can We Help?

A Pelvic Physiotherapist has advanced training . They assess and treat the pelvic floor through a combination of external and internal examinations. This treatment is for both males and females. Internal examination allows the Physiotherapist, to evaluate the pelvic floor directly. As a result, this will help to identify contributing factors to your concern.

Typically, tension or weakness are underlying imbalances in the pelvic floor. The Mysterious Pelvic Floor issues are usually treatable!

Although this is an area less known for its muscle contribution, the parallel of a shoulder injury should be drawn here, for example. In order to help treat a shoulder problem, a Physiotherapist would still have to evaluate all the muscles around it. We would check to see where the problem lies. Once found, these same muscles would be treated directly.

This is the same principle to keep in mind when trying to understand pelvic floor problems and treatment.

Treatment of The Mysterious Pelvic Floor?

Once a full examination has been completed, the Pelvic Physiotherapist discusses the results with you. Together, they will develop a treatment plan with you. Pelvic Physiotherapy treatments vary, however, some of the methods often used can include:

  • Postural training
  • Release and mobilizations , (often the low back, hips, etc. are involved).
  • Connective tissue release. Connective tissue is the thin layer found above our muscles. Sometimes, it can cause tension pulls and compression in areas. As a result, this causes pain and poor function.
  • Dilator work
  • Internal techniques to release areas of tension. We teach contraction exercises AND relaxation techniques. These are often overlooked
  • Exercises: These are positional to alleviate pain and pressure. They strengthen, stretch, and activate muscles. As a result, they help to build endurance, and improve coordination.
  • Breathing techniques

In cases where internal assessment or treatment may be painful, external treatment can be started first. This can often reduce the tension causing the internal discomfort. Improvements can be made to achieve your ultimate goals.

It is also important to note that Physiotherapists are primary health care providers. Therefore, you can see a Physiotherapist without a doctor’s referral. However, if your Physiotherapist feels that you may benefit from further testing, we will reach out to your doctor of choice.

Summary of The Mysterious Pelvic Floor

The Mysterious Pelvic Floor doesn’t need to be so mysterious!

Two of the most common phrases that I hear patient’s mention during or after a pelvic physiotherapy assessment are:

  “I didn’t even know that this type of Physiotherapy existed” and

         “I wish I knew about this sooner”

These phrases are often derived from patients who have a pelvic concern. In most cases, it has significantly affected their function. It has resulted from the belief that nothing could be done, besides “living with it.”

My hope is that Pelvic Physiotherapy becomes well known! My hope is that you seek treatment as often as our rotator cuff friends. Afterall, they both involve muscles that can be easily treated. Take care of your pelvic floor, it is literally of foundational importance!

If you or someone you know suffers from Pelvic Floor issues, PhysioNow can help! We have specially trained Pelvic Floor Physiotherapists available at all of our clinics to help. Call today to get started on your treatment!