Pelvic Floor Dysfunction

Pelvic Floor Dysfunction (PFD) is a common problem for patients with bladder, prostate, vulvar, rectal, scrotal and testicular pain. In fact, an estimated 87% of IC/BPS patients struggle with tight, dysfunctional pelvic floor muscles. And, yes, hypertonic pelvic floor muscles can trigger urinary frequency, urgency, pressure and/or pain, as well as vulvar, rectal and testicular pain. If you have a history of pelvic injury (hip or SI dysfunction, coccyx/tailbone injury, childbirth injuries) we suggest beginning with Breaking Through Chronic Pelvic Pain, a master class in pelvic anatomy that contains many encouraging success stories. Sometimes the mystery of your pelvic pain is rooted in a simple fall or accident many years prior to the onset of your symptoms.

Recommended Reading – You MUST start with your own education. The pelvic cavity contains many different structures: muscles, nerves, blood vessels and organs. Before your first physical therapy appointment, you should familiarize yourself with these structures and where they are located. Then, during your first pelvic floor appointment, you will have a much clearer idea of what the physical therapist is touching and what they are working on.
IC 101: It’s Not Just A Bladder Disease
IC 101: The Flare Guide
Breaking Through Chronic Pelvic Pain
When It Hurts Down There: 15 Proven Techniques to Reduce Pelvic Pain

Heat & Cold – Muscles often respond well to heat therapy. Thus, we include not only our perfectly shaped microwavable heating pad but also the easy-to-use BodiHeat pads that can be attached to your clothing and worn all day. Ideal for working, travelling and/or driving.
Gingerbee Microwaveable Heating Pad
Bodi Heat Heating Pads

Chair Cushions – If sitting is difficult, you may find one of our chair cushions helpful.
SunCloud Travel Cushion – With a groove down the middle that protects the crotch, these are the rolls royce of chair cushions with excellent fabric and foam quality.
The Waffle Chair Cushion – Is ideal for pain in the glutes. This cushion is a popular favorite because it puts an inch of air between your toosh and the chair surface.

Physical Therapy – The key to pelvic floor therapy is consistency. The goal is to help patients recognize when their muscles are becoming tight and to use a wand, if necessary, to calm them down. There are several wands on the market, including some which vibrate. These are not sexual toys. Your physical therapist should guide you on their use.
Intimate Rose Pelvic Wand
Intimate Rose Vibrating Pelvic Wand