Pelvic floor pain and dysfunction are common yet often misunderstood issues that can significantly impact quality of life. Many individuals dealing with pelvic floor trigger points wonder, “Will the pain ever go away?” While pelvic floor physical therapy can offer relief, the persistence of symptoms often indicates a more complex interplay of muscular and structural factors that require a comprehensive approach. This guide explores why pelvic floor pain persists and offers insights into effective solutions.
Understanding the Pelvic Floor
The pelvic floor is a group of muscles located at the base of the pelvis. These muscles play a crucial role in supporting the pelvic organs, aiding in urinary and bowel control, and contributing to sexual function. Tightness or dysfunction in the pelvic floor muscles can lead to a range of symptoms, including:
- Genital pain
- Pelvic pain
- Abdominal pain
- Hip pain
Trigger points, or knots of tension in these muscles, are a common source of pain. Many people seek pelvic floor therapy, which often includes breathing exercises or manual release techniques targeting the vaginal or rectal areas. However, addressing the pelvic floor in isolation may not provide lasting relief.
The Bigger Picture: The Pelvic Floor as Part of a Team
To understand why pelvic floor pain persists, it’s essential to view these muscles as part of a larger system. The pelvic floor functions in coordination with other muscle groups, including:
- Hip muscles: Many muscles connect the hips to the pelvis, playing a critical role in pelvic alignment and stability.
- Back muscles: These contribute to spinal stability and influence the pelvis’s positioning.
- Abdominal muscles: Proper engagement of deep abdominal muscles is vital for pelvic floor relaxation.
- Rib cage and posture: Imbalances in posture, even as far up as the rib cage, can affect pelvic floor tension.
Much like a basketball team where every player must contribute to win, the pelvic floor relies on this “team” of muscles to function optimally. If one or more of these muscles are weak, overactive, or poorly coordinated, the pelvic floor may compensate by becoming tight or dysfunctional.
Why Traditional Pelvic Floor Therapy May Not Be Enough
While pelvic floor therapy often focuses on releasing tension through targeted exercises or manual techniques, it may not address the underlying causes of muscle dysfunction. Persistent trigger points in the pelvic floor could stem from:
- Hip issues: Past injuries, surgeries, or conditions like labral tears can create imbalances that affect the pelvic floor.
- Low back problems: Misalignment or weakness in the lower back can strain the pelvic region.
- Improper muscle usage: Overusing superficial abdominal muscles (e.g., during bodybuilding) while neglecting deep core muscles can disrupt the pelvic floor’s natural function.
- Postural imbalances: Poor posture can affect the alignment and engagement of muscles from the feet to the rib cage.
A Holistic Approach to Pelvic Floor Pain
To effectively treat persistent pelvic floor pain, it’s crucial to adopt a holistic approach that considers the entire body. Here are some key steps to addressing the issue:
1. Assess the Whole System
Evaluate the health and functionality of the hips, back, and abdominal muscles. Determine whether past injuries or surgeries could be contributing to imbalances.
2. Work with a Team of Experts
Collaboration among healthcare providers, including pelvic floor specialists, physical therapists, and possibly orthopedic or neurological experts, can provide a comprehensive treatment plan.
3. Target Deeper Muscle Groups
Strengthen deep core muscles, such as the transverse abdominis, which support pelvic floor relaxation and coordination. These muscles are often overlooked in traditional exercise routines.
4. Address Posture and Alignment
Correct postural imbalances by focusing on the alignment of the pelvis, spine, and rib cage. This may include working on foot mechanics and overall body posture.
5. Incorporate Functional Training
Engage in exercises that train the entire system to work together. Functional movements that mimic real-life activities can improve muscle coordination and reduce strain on the pelvic floor.
Can Trigger Points Ever Go Away?
The good news is that pelvic floor trigger points can often resolve with the right approach. By treating the entire musculoskeletal system and addressing contributing factors, many people experience significant relief. Here’s what to remember:
- Treatment takes time: Persistent pain often reflects long-standing imbalances that require patience and consistent effort to correct.
- Seek specialized care: If you’ve tried traditional pelvic floor therapy without success, consider seeking a clinic or therapist that specializes in holistic treatment.
- Stay proactive: Continue to practice good posture, engage in appropriate exercises, and monitor for signs of recurring tension.
Moving Forward
If you’re struggling with pelvic floor pain and feel like you’ve hit a dead end, don’t lose hope. Persistent symptoms often signal a need to look beyond the pelvic floor itself and consider the broader picture. A comprehensive, team-based approach that addresses the hips, back, abdomen, and posture can help you find the relief you deserve.
Also read: What Are the Pros and Cons of C-Section vs Vaginal Birth?
About:
I’m Hina Sheth. I have been treating complex orthopedics, sports and pelvic floor physical problems for over 25 years with amazing results. Now I want to bring my knowledge to the global community so I can spread my knowledge to you.
Our bodies are complex systems of 600 muscles and organs intertwined in a fascial system that all work together. Imbalances in this system such as trigger points, visceral and myofascial restrictions can lead to joint, pelvic, and organ issues.
Factors like nutrition, exercise, sleep, and stress play a crucial role. Unfortunately, our current healthcare model does not look at our bodies as a whole and oftentimes compartmentalize musculoskeletal injuries and dysfunctions.
At Rebalance, our goal is to holistically treat this complex system to restore harmony in the body. By addressing these imbalances, we help clients improve their overall health and well-being. Our vision is to empower individuals to create a healthier lifestyle for themselves.
