Pelvic Floor Muscle Training (PFMT)

• Kegel Exercises: Involves contracting and relaxing the pelvic floor muscles to strengthen them and improve control over bladder and bowel functions.
• Resistance Training: Utilizes devices such as vaginal weights or biofeedback to provide resistance during muscle contractions, enhancing strength.

Biofeedback

• Overview: Uses electronic sensors to provide real-time feedback on muscle activity. This helps patients learn how to properly engage and relax pelvic floor muscles.
• Application: Sensors may be placed externally or internally (vaginally or rectally) to monitor muscle contractions and provide visual or auditory feedback.

Manual Therapy

• Internal Palpation: A skilled therapist uses their fingers inserted through the vagina or rectum to assess and treat the pelvic floor muscles. This may include stretching tight muscles or applying pressure to trigger points.
• External Techniques: Involves applying gentle pressure to the pelvic area and lower abdomen to address muscle tension and dysfunction.

Pelvic Floor Muscle Relaxation

• Stretching Exercises: Gentle stretching techniques to relieve tension and improve flexibility in the pelvic floor muscles.
• Breathing Techniques: Incorporates diaphragmatic breathing and relaxation exercises to help reduce muscle tension and promote overall pelvic floor relaxation.

Postural Training

• Education: Teaches proper body mechanics and postural alignment to reduce stress on the pelvic floor and prevent strain.
• Exercises: Focuses on strengthening the core and improving overall posture to support pelvic floor function.

Bladder and Bowel Retraining

• Scheduled Voiding: Implements a schedule for regular bathroom visits to help manage urinary incontinence and reduce urgency.
• Dietary Changes: Advises on dietary adjustments to manage constipation and improve bowel function.

Pelvic Floor Exercises with Feedback

• Electromyography (EMG): Uses EMG biofeedback to measure muscle electrical activity and guide patients in performing effective pelvic floor exercises.
• Pressure Sensors: Employs sensors to measure the pressure exerted by pelvic floor contractions, helping patients learn proper muscle engagement.

Trigger Point Release

• Overview: Focuses on identifying and releasing tight spots or trigger points in the pelvic floor muscles to alleviate pain and discomfort.
• Techniques: Includes manual pressure or stretching to release muscular knots and improve function.

Functional Training

• Movement Integration: Incorporates pelvic floor exercises into daily activities and functional movements to improve strength and coordination during real-life tasks.
• Pelvic Stability Exercises: Enhances the stability and control of the pelvic region during various activities.

Education and Self-Care Strategies

• Home Exercises: Provides patients with a tailored exercise program to continue their therapy at home.
• Lifestyle Modifications: Advises on changes in habits and activities to support pelvic floor health and manage symptoms effectively.