Pelvic pain is a frustrating and uncomfortable condition that occurs in women as well as men. It is not fully comprehended and sometimes difficult to determine. Many individuals are surprised to learn that the majority of the problem resides in the muscles of the pelvic floor. They’re the ones that support your bladder, bowel, and reproductive organs up — and when they stop functioning, they hurt.
If you’re looking for answers and relief, understanding the role of pelvic floor health in NW Calgary is a great place to start.
What Is Chronic Pelvic Pain Syndrome?
Chronic pelvic pain syndrome (CPPS) is pain in the lower belly, pelvis, or genital area that lasts for more than six months. It can come and go, or it can feel constant. The pain might feel sharp, dull, or like pressure. For some people, it also causes problems with urination, digestion, or intimacy.
Unlike short-term pelvic pain caused by infections or injuries, chronic pelvic pain often has no clear cause. But one common factor in many cases is tension or dysfunction in the pelvic floor muscles.
How the Pelvic Floor Affects Pain
Your pelvic floor is like a hammock made of muscles. These muscles support your organs and help you control things like urination and bowel movements. When these muscles are too tight, weak, or out of balance, they can cause pain and discomfort, even when you’re not moving.
That’s where a chiropractor near you or a pelvic health specialist can help. By checking how your muscles are working, they can spot problems that might be adding to your pain. This step is important for figuring out how to treat CPPS properly.
What Causes the Pelvic Floor to Become Tight?
There are many reasons the pelvic floor might become tight or irritated. Some common causes include
- Long periods of stress or anxiety
- Past injuries or surgeries in the pelvic area
- Poor posture, especially from sitting a lot
- Chronic constipation or straining
- Pregnancy and childbirth
Once the muscles tighten up, they can stay that way, causing long-term pain. This is why chronic pelvic pain often lasts for months — or even years — before someone gets the right treatment.
How Pelvic Floor Therapy Can Help
The good news is, there’s a proven way to help: pelvic floor therapy. This kind of therapy focuses on relaxing, strengthening, and retraining the pelvic muscles. It’s often done by physiotherapists or chiropractors who have special training in pelvic health.
During therapy of the pelvic floor, you may work on:
- Breathing techniques to relax your muscles
- Gentle stretching and movement
- Posture and body alignment
- Manual therapy to reduce muscle tension
Therapists also teach you how to manage symptoms at home and avoid activities that can make the pain worse. Over time, this can lead to real improvements in how you feel.
At-Home Exercises for Pelvic Floor Relaxation
In addition to therapy sessions, there are also helpful pelvic floor relaxation exercises you can try at home. These exercises are designed to loosen tight muscles and reduce pain.
One simple example is diaphragmatic breathing:
- Lie on your back with your knees bent.
- Place one hand on your chest and one on your belly.
- Take a deep breath in through your nose, letting your belly rise (not your chest).
- Breathe out slowly through your mouth and feel your belly drop.
- Repeat for 5–10 minutes each day.
Other exercises might include gentle yoga poses, stretches, and movements that focus on the hips, lower back, and pelvic area. Just make sure to speak with a professional before starting a new routine, especially if your pain is severe.
Why Early Treatment Matters
Waiting too long to get help for chronic pelvic pain can make it worse. Over time, the body can adjust in ways that make the pain harder to treat. That’s why it’s so important to talk to someone early, especially if your pain is interfering with your daily life.
Getting an evaluation from a professional trained in pelvic floor care can give you answers, relief, and a clear plan to move forward.
Take the First Step Toward Lasting Relief
If you’re living with pelvic pain, don’t wait any longer to get help. The team at Synergea Family Health Centre offers expert care and customized pelvic health treatment plans. Whether you need physiotherapy, chiropractic care, or support with at-home exercises, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.
Take control of your health and comfort — book your appointment with Synergea Family Health Centre today and start your journey toward lasting relief!