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.

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!