Pelvic Health and Rehabilitation Center - Causes of Pelvic Floor Dysfunction

Visceral Disease or Dysfunction

A physiological reflex exists between viscera (organs) and the somatic system (skeletal muscles, connective tissue, nerves). An example of this reflex is when a patient experiences pain in his/her left arm (somatic) during a heart attack (visceral). Another common example is when an active myofascial trigger point in the abdominal wall or adductor muscle cause apparent bladder dysfunction: urinary frequency and/or urgency. In the pelvis, endometriosis, interstitial cystitis, hormonal changes, irritable bowel syndrome and bacterial, yeast, and prostate infections can induce pathological changes in the muscles, tissues, and nerves that then cause pelvic pain and dysfunction. The dysfunctional musculoskeletal system can continue to mimic the original infection long after the infection has been resolved.

"Although pain is one of the most common reasons patients consult with physical therapists, few physical therapists in the country have completed specific training in how to examine and treat patients with various pain syndromes. More specifically, the specialization of pelvic pain leaves most physical therapists completely out on a limb. The physical therapist's at the Pelvic Health and Rehabilitation Center do not only understand the complexity of pain syndromes, they contribute to setting the standards in pelvic physical therapy. They are professionals who in addition to teaching many excellent continuing education courses, attend multiple professional courses and conferences. Their patients benefit from their evidence-informed approach to pelvic pain and are assured of receiving high-quality care. It is with great confidence that I recommend them to my patients from California.”
–Jan Dommerholt, PT, MPS, FAAPM President, Bethesda Physiocare and Myopain Seminars