How pelvic floor therapy supports those with dysautonomia highlights an essential yet often overlooked aspect of managing these complex conditions. Living with Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS), Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS), and dysautonomia can significantly impact daily life due to symptoms such as hypermobility, poor circulation, and autonomic dysfunction. What many people don’t realize, however, is the vital role pelvic floor health plays in managing these challenges. At our specialized physical therapy clinic, we’ve seen how pelvic floor therapy can help patients achieve greater stability, reduce discomfort, and improve their quality of life.
Why Pelvic Floor Therapy Matters
For individuals with EDS, hypermobility, or dysautonomia, symptoms like pelvic pain, incontinence, or organ prolapse are common due to connective tissue laxity and poor muscle coordination. Dysautonomia, in particular, can contribute to issues like urinary urgency or dysfunction due to disruptions in the autonomic nervous system. Pelvic floor therapy is designed to target these issues by strengthening and rebalancing the muscles in the pelvic region. By improving the function of these essential muscles, patients can achieve better symptom control and experience significant improvements in their daily lives
Key Benefits of Pelvic Floor Therapy
By incorporating pelvic floor therapy into a care plan, patients can better manage symptoms and feel more confident in their ability to engage in daily activities.
- Improved pelvic stability: Strengthening the pelvic floor counteracts the instability caused by hypermobility and EDS.
- Reduced pain: Targeted therapy can alleviate pelvic, abdominal, and lower back pain.
- Enhanced bladder and bowel control: Exercises improve coordination, reducing symptoms of incontinence and urgency.
- Better posture and core strength: A stronger pelvic floor supports spinal alignment and overall posture.
- Relief from organ prolapse symptoms: Therapy can help strengthen support of pelvic organs for greater comfort.
Support, Stability, and Addressing Tissue Laxity
For individuals with EDS and hypermobility, connective tissue laxity is a significant challenge. This lack of structural support can strain the pelvic floor, causing discomfort, heaviness, and other symptoms. The pelvic floor muscles act as a key support system for the core, spine, and pelvis. Pelvic floor therapy focuses on strengthening this critical area, reducing pain, improving mobility, and enhancing overall posture. By addressing the body’s foundational support, therapy empowers patients to regain control and feel more stable in their movements.
Managing Muscle Tension in Hypermobile Bodies
Hypermobile individuals often face an unusual combination of lax tissues and compensatory muscle tension. The pelvic floor may become overly tight as the body tries to stabilize itself, leading to discomfort, pain, or restricted movement. Pelvic floor therapy helps relax overworked muscles and rebalance tension, promoting comfort and functionality. Patients who undergo therapy often report relief from symptoms such as pain, incontinence, and difficulty with movement.
The Pelvic Floor’s Role in Circulation and Autonomic Function
The pelvic floor isn’t just about stability—it also plays a critical role in circulation. For individuals with POTS and dysautonomia, poor circulation and blood flow regulation are common issues. A strong pelvic floor acts as a natural pump, promoting venous return and improving overall circulation. This can alleviate symptoms such as lightheadedness, fatigue, and swelling.
Additionally, the pelvic floor is closely connected to the autonomic nervous system (ANS), which regulates involuntary functions like heart rate, digestion, and bladder control. Dysfunction in the pelvic floor can worsen autonomic dysregulation, leading to symptoms like urinary urgency or gastrointestinal discomfort. Pelvic floor therapy works to retrain these muscles, allowing them to function in harmony with the ANS and providing relief from these disruptive symptoms.
Find Relief with Specialized Care
Pelvic floor health is a cornerstone of managing POTS, EDS, and dysautonomia. By strengthening and rebalancing the pelvic floor muscles, therapy can reduce pain, enhance stability, improve circulation, and support autonomic function. At our clinic, we specialize in helping individuals with these conditions regain control of their symptoms through personalized physical therapy programs.
If you’re ready to take the next step toward relief, visit our website and fill out this form to schedule an appointment. Let us guide you on your journey to feeling stronger, more supported, and back in control of your health!