The pelvic floor has an important role in the body, particularly during high intensity activities like running. It absorbs impact and supports the internal organs by automatically engaging when appropriate. However, dysfunction in the pelvic floor can cause various symptoms when running, due to the added stress of the movement and impact.
Keep reading to learn more.
The pelvic floor is a group of muscles that span the lower part of the pelvis, acting like a hammock or a supportive “floor”. Nerves, ligaments, and connective tissue support the function of the pelvic floor.
The pelvic floor has two main functions:
1. Support the pelvic organs, acting as a “floor” for the organs by resisting the downward pressure of normal everyday movements, such as walking or running
2. Closure and opening of the bladder and bowel sphincters for bladder and bowel control
Dysfunction in the pelvic floor can lead to different issues when running, due to the added stress of the high intensity movement. This can include:
● Pain – in the pelvis, , or back
● Urinary incontinence
● Bowel incontinence
● A feeling of “heaviness” or pressure
● Toileting urgency (feeling an urgent need to urinate or defecate)
Running is great for overall health and fitness. But just like other muscles in the body, the pelvic floor needs exercise and training to stay strong and function well. To keep the pelvic floor healthy when running, consider the following:
It’s a good idea to speak to a health professional to address any specific concerns and get a correct diagnosis before beginning a pelvic floor exercise program. This can help prevent the problem getting worse, and help ensure the correct exercises are prescribed to address the problem.
Physiotherapists trained in women’s health have specific knowledge and techniques to address pelvic floor dysfunction. For almost every case, it is possible to retrain the pelvic floor muscles and regain pelvic floor control. Seek out Evoker services, including our Physiotherapy, Pilates Informed Reformer , or Women’s Wellness, which can help manage a wide variety of pelvic floor concerns and problems.
Pelvic floor exercises can be deceptively difficult to complete appropriately. Without the proper technique, poorly pelvic floor exercises can actually worsen the problem or dysfunction. Learning how to properly train the pelvic floor is very important for optimal results.
The benefits of pelvic floor exercises include:
● Improve bladder and bowel control
● Increase support for internal organs
● Encourage normal muscle activation during movements
● Reduce risk of prolapse
● Improve social confidence
● Enhance quality of life
The pelvic floor needs to be looked after to do its job properly. See our range of Evoker services to address any pelvic floor dysfunction.
Always consult a health professional before starting any type of exercise program.
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