It is important that women and men have a healthy regard and awareness of their Pelvis and Pelvic Floor. This area of the body is the HUB of all activity, contributing to overall health--physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual health. It is an area that is in constant communication with the upper and lower body and the organs they support. It is an active, dynamic, and multifunctional area essential to activities of daily living. The pelvis and pelvic floor have muscles, nerves, fascia, ligaments, bones, joints, blood, and lymph-- all which function to provide the necessary core strength, stability, mobility, vitality, sensitivity, proprioception, and functionality. Information transits through or directly into the pelvis and pelvic floor.

This information allows us to:

1. Maintain a stable base of support for upright posture in sitting or standing

2. Transition in and out of various positions while maintaining a supportive function

3. Mobilize or stabilize in order to walk, run, jump, etc.

4. Have effective bowel and bladder function

5. Engage in healthy sexual activity

The pelvic floor lies in the base of the pelvis, in a sling like fashion, attaching to your skeletal frame. These attachments are made anteriorly, posteriorly, and laterally connecting to the pubic bone, sacrum, coccyx, and hip bones. The resting tone and voluntary control of the pelvic floor muscles are important for optimal pelvic support and function.

The Pelvic Floor Functions to:

1. Support the pelvic organs-- the bladder, uterus, and colon

2. Assist in stopping or starting the flow of urine or the elimination of gas or bowel

3. Aide in sexual function and appreciation

4. Provide support during pregnancy and permit for childbirth

Pelvic Floor Dysfunctions can limit your daily activities and profoundly affect your relationships and your lifestyle. These dysfunctions can be painful, disruptive, and stressful.

Common Pelvic Floor Dysfunctions: Bladder or Bowel Incontinence, Prolapse, Constipation, Sexual Pain / Dysfunction, and Pelvic Pain. Other chronic conditions may include: hip pain, back pain, neck pain, and abdominal pain.

For more information on Physical Therapy treatment for Pelvic Floor Dysfunctions please visit: www.actonyourhealth.com