Pain After Pelvic Floor Therapy

Pelvic floor therapy is a non-invasive, often life-changing treatment option for addressing various health concerns related to the pelvic muscles. Millions of people have benefited from this therapeutic method, but some may experience temporary pain after a session. Pain and discomfort are natural parts of the healing process, but when do these symptoms signal a problem? In this comprehensive breakdown, we provide an overview of pelvic floor therapy, address why you may experience pain, and share tips to alleviate symptoms.

Understanding Pelvic Floor Therapy

Pelvic floor therapy focuses on the rehabilitation of the muscles, tissues, and nerves responsible for bladder, bowel, and sexual function. With time, these muscles can weaken or become too tight, causing symptoms such as incontinence, pelvic pain, or sexual dysfunction.

Therapists use various techniques such as manual manipulation, biofeedback, and exercises to isolate and strengthen the pelvic floor muscles. They may also advise on lifestyle changes to promote long-term healing. While you can expect some discomfort during the sessions, most people find relief from their symptoms within a few weeks to months of treatment.

Reasons for Pain After Pelvic Floor Therapy

1. Muscle soreness

Much like a rigorous workout, pelvic floor therapy engages muscles that might be weak, tight, or inflamed. As a result, you might experience a degree of muscle soreness post-session—this is entirely normal and should subside within a day or two.

2. Trigger point release

During therapy, your physical therapist may work on releasing tight knots (trigger points) in your pelvic area. This process can leave the muscles feeling tender, but the discomfort should diminish shortly after the session.

3. Emotional release

Pelvic floor issues are often tied to emotional trauma. As therapy progresses and physical healing occurs, it might trigger emotional reactions that can manifest as physical pain. This phenomenon, while not as common, is a possible cause for post-session discomfort.

Pain After Pelvic Floor Therapy Example

Imagine you suffered from chronic pelvic pain and turned to pelvic floor therapy for relief. During your sessions, your therapist conducts deep manual manipulation of your muscles, focusing on trigger points. As a result, you feel some soreness and discomfort for a day or two afterward. Thankfully, as the weeks go on and with continued therapy, the pain lessens, indicating progress and healing.

Alleviating Post-Therapy Pain

1. Warmth

Applying a heating pad to the sore area helps increase blood flow and relax muscles. Heat therapy can provide immediate relief and should be used for no longer than 15-20 minutes at a time.

2. Gentle stretching

By performing simple stretches regularly, such as child’s pose or pelvic tilts, you can help maintain flexibility and promote blood flow to the pelvic region. Always consult with your therapist before starting any new exercises, as they might not be suitable for everyone.

3. Over-the-counter medications

In some cases, it might be necessary to take over-the-counter pain relief (e.g., ibuprofen) to alleviate post-session pain. Always follow pharmaceutical guidelines and consult with your healthcare provider before using any medication.

When to Be Concerned

While it's normal to experience some pain after pelvic floor therapy, it's essential to listen to your body and discuss any concerns with your therapist. If your pain is persistent, worsens, or is accompanied by fever, foul-smelling discharge or excessive bleeding, seek medical attention immediately.

Pain After Pelvic Floor Therapy Frequently Asked Questions

What is pelvic floor therapy?

Pelvic floor therapy is a specialized form of physical therapy aimed at addressing issues related to the pelvic floor muscles. This may include conditions like urinary incontinence, pelvic pain, and other related dysfunctions.

Is it common to experience pain after pelvic floor therapy?

While mild discomfort might be experienced after certain techniques or exercises, severe or prolonged pain is not a typical outcome of pelvic floor therapy.

Why might someone experience pain after a session?

There are several reasons, including:

• The release of muscle tension or trigger points
• Sensitivity to certain manual techniques
• An inflammatory response due to the therapeutic intervention

How long should post-therapy pain or discomfort last?

Mild discomfort might persist for a day or two after the session. If it continues beyond this or intensifies, it's important to contact your therapist.

Should I be concerned if I experience pain after my therapy session?

While some discomfort can be expected, especially after the first few sessions, persistent or severe pain should be discussed with your therapist to ensure the therapy is being administered correctly and safely.

How can I alleviate post-therapy discomfort or pain?

Applying a cold or warm compress, taking over-the-counter pain relievers (after consulting with a healthcare professional), or practicing gentle stretches can help.

Is post-therapy pain a sign that the treatment is working?

Not necessarily. While the "no pain, no gain" adage might apply to some therapies, pain is not a direct indicator of the effectiveness of pelvic floor therapy.

Are there any red flags I should watch out for after my therapy session?

Severe pain, increased swelling, unusual discharge, or any other unexpected symptoms should be discussed with your therapist or healthcare provider immediately.

Can certain exercises cause more discomfort than others?

Yes. Some exercises or techniques, especially when targeting tight or sensitive muscles, can cause mild discomfort. Your therapist should guide you on what to expect.

If I experience pain, does it mean something was done incorrectly during my session?

Not always. Some discomfort can be a natural part of the therapeutic process. However, if pain persists, it's essential to communicate this with your therapist to review techniques and adjust future treatments if necessary.

Should I continue with exercises at home if they cause pain?

Always prioritize your comfort. If home exercises cause pain, stop them and consult with your therapist before proceeding.

Can pain after pelvic floor therapy be psychological?

While the physical aspects are more commonly discussed, psychological factors can also influence pain perception. Past traumas or anxiety related to the pelvic region can potentially heighten pain or discomfort.

How can I communicate my pain or concerns to my therapist?

Be open and direct about your experience. Describe the intensity, location, and duration of the pain. The more information you provide, the better equipped your therapist will be to help.

Are there ways to prevent pain or discomfort after therapy?

Your therapist can provide guidance on cooldown exercises, relaxation techniques, or other practices that can minimize post-session discomfort.

Do all patients experience pain after pelvic floor therapy?

No, many patients undergo pelvic floor therapy without experiencing significant post-session pain. Everyone's body responds differently to therapy.

Is it normal to feel emotional discomfort or vulnerability during or after therapy?

Given the intimate nature of pelvic floor therapy, it's natural for some individuals to feel vulnerable or emotional. Always communicate your feelings to your therapist to ensure a comfortable and supportive environment.

What should I do if I consistently experience pain after every therapy session?

Consistent pain is a concern and should be addressed. It might indicate a need for adjustments in the therapy techniques or a re-evaluation of your treatment plan.

If I stop therapy because of the pain, can I resume later?

Absolutely. It's essential to prioritize your comfort. If you decide to pause therapy, you can always discuss resuming with your therapist when you feel ready.

Can the therapy be adjusted if I am sensitive to pain or discomfort?

Yes, pelvic floor therapy is highly individualized. If you're sensitive to certain techniques or exercises, your therapist can modify your treatment plan to ensure it's both comfortable and effective.

Pelvic floor therapy is transforming lives by providing relief from various health concerns. While it might be natural to experience post-session pain, these sensations are typically temporary and indicative of progress. By understanding the reasons behind the discomfort and seeking guidance from experienced professionals, you can ensure a safe and effective journey to better pelvic health. Our series of guides on Pelvic Floor Therapy is your go-to resource for information and support—so remember to share and explore our other helpful posts!