Pelvic floor disorders can affect muscles, joints and connective tissues around the pelvis, hips and core. McLaren Greater Lansing says specialized pelvic floor physical therapy can help people with symptoms they may have endured for years. “Many people don’t realize that the pain they have been dealing with—back pain, leg pain, tailbone pain—can all stem from the pelvic floor,” said Christin Rusz, DPT, ATC, MTC, a physical therapist at McLaren Greater Lansing.

Symptoms worth discussing with a specialist

The release identifies tailbone or sit bone pain, pain with bowel movements, persistent lower back pain, pain during intercourse, sciatica, bowel or urinary incontinence, and pain during or after pregnancy as reasons to consider an evaluation.

What causes pelvic floor disorders?

Pelvic floor muscles may be too tight or too weak. Contributing factors can include prolonged sitting, posture and repetitive movements, childbirth or other trauma, abdominal surgery, and lower back injuries.

What to expect

A therapist reviews health history and evaluates the core, diaphragm, lower back, pelvic floor, hips and spinal mobility. Care may combine education, breathing and core exercises, and manual therapy tailored to the individual.

services: