Gut Health in the New Year: Part 1 – Pelvic Floor

Constipation is a common issue that many people face, and for some, it can become a persistent and debilitating problem. While diet, hydration, and exercise are often the first solutions considered, there’s another approach that can offer significant relief: pelvic floor physical therapy. Pelvic floor therapy is a highly effective method for addressing constipation, particularly in individuals with pelvic floor dysfunction. 

The pelvic floor is a group of muscles that support the pelvic organs, including the rectum. These muscles play a crucial role in the function of bowel movements. When they are weak, tight, or uncoordinated, it can lead to difficulty with pooping or constipation. The pelvic floor muscles must be able to relax and contract properly for a bowel movement to occur smoothly. If these muscles are not functioning properly, they can interfere with the normal process of elimination, causing pain, straining, and infrequent stools. 

Pelvic floor dysfunction related to constipation can arise from a variety of factors. Some of the most common causes include: 

• Weak pelvic floor muscles: These muscles are responsible for supporting the rectum and helping with the coordination of bowel movements. If they are too weak, they cannot properly assist in the elimination process. 

• Overactive pelvic floor muscles: On the flip side, if these muscles are too tight, they may fail to relax when needed for a bowel movement. This leads to difficulty passing stool. 

• Postpartum changes: Pregnancy and childbirth can strain the pelvic floor muscles, leading to constipation for some women. 

• Chronic straining: Regularly forcing a bowel movement can lead to a vicious cycle where the pelvic muscles become tense and less able to relax properly. 

Pelvic floor physical therapy is a specialized treatment that focuses on strengthening, relaxing, and improving the coordination of pelvic floor muscles. For individuals suffering from constipation, a pelvic floor physical therapist works to identify and treat any underlying dysfunction in the pelvic region. The therapist may use a variety of techniques, including: 

1. Biofeedback: This tool helps individuals become more aware of how their pelvic muscles are functioning. It provides real-time feedback on whether the muscles are contracting or relaxing as needed, allowing the patient to learn how to better control them.  This can be with a biofeedback machine, tactile or visual cues, or real-time ultrasound. 

2. Manual Therapy: The therapist may use gentle manual techniques to release tight muscles in the hips, abdominal wall, or pelvic floor to improve mobility in the pelvic area. This can help alleviate any muscle tension that is hindering proper bowel movements. 

3. Pelvic Floor Exercises: The therapist will guide the patient through exercises that either strengthen weak pelvic muscles or teach them to relax tight ones. These exercises are tailored specifically to each patient’s needs. 

4. Posture and Breathing Techniques: Poor posture and improper breathing can exacerbate constipation. Pelvic floor therapists often teach patients how to improve their posture and use diaphragmatic breathing to support healthy bowel function. 

5. Education and Lifestyle Modifications: Pelvic floor physical therapists provide valuable advice on diet, hydration, and lifestyle habits that can further support bowel health. This often includes recommendations for fiber intake and strategies for developing healthy toilet habits. 

Pelvic floor physical therapy offers a holistic and effective treatment option for constipation, especially when other methods haven’t been successful. The key benefits include: 

• Non-invasive treatment: Pelvic floor therapy offers a low-risk solution for constipation, making it an alternative for those who want to avoid more medications or invasive procedures. 

• Personalized care: Each therapy plan is tailored to the individual, taking into account each patient’s unique needs. 

• Improved bowel function: Many patients experience significant improvements in bowel movements, including less straining, reduced discomfort, and increased frequency of stools. 

• Long-term relief: By addressing the root cause of pelvic floor dysfunction, therapy can lead to long-lasting relief, helping patients avoid chronic constipation issues in the future. 

For individuals suffering from constipation, pelvic floor physical therapy presents a often overlooked option for finding relief. By targeting the root causes of pelvic floor dysfunction and improving muscle coordination, this therapy can offer significant improvements in bowel health, leading to better digestion, reduced discomfort, and a more fulfilling quality of life. If you’ve been struggling with constipation and haven’t found a solution that works, pelvic floor physical therapy might be just the answer you’ve been searching for. Click HERE to schedule a free 15 minute phone consultation to start improving your gut health in 2025.

-Jennifer Cumming, PT, MSPT, CLT, WCS

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Disclaimer: This blog is here for your help. It is the opinion of a Licensed Physical Therapist. If you experience the symptoms addressed you should seek the help of a medical professional who can diagnose and develop a treatment plan that is individualized for you.