Rehabilitation of the short pelvic floor. I: Background and patient evaluation

Int Urogynecol J Pelvic Floor Dysfunct. 2003 Oct;14(4):261-8. doi: 10.1007/s00192-003-1049-0. Epub 2003 Aug 2.

Abstract

Pelvic floor physical therapists have traditionally focused on rehabilitation of the weak pelvic floor of normal length. With the recognition that many urogynecologic symptoms arise from the presence of a short, painful pelvic floor, the role of the physical therapist is expanding. Clinically, the pelvic floor musculature is found to be short, tender, and therefore weak. There are associated trigger points and characteristic extrapelvic connective tissue abnormalities. We report the characteristic patterns of myofascial and connective tissue abnormalities in 49 patients presenting with this syndrome.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Exercise Therapy / methods
  • Female
  • Follow-Up Studies
  • Humans
  • Muscle Contraction / physiology
  • Muscle, Smooth / physiology
  • Pain Measurement
  • Patient Satisfaction
  • Pelvic Floor / abnormalities
  • Pelvic Pain / etiology
  • Pelvic Pain / physiopathology
  • Pelvic Pain / rehabilitation*
  • Physical Therapy Modalities / methods*
  • Quality of Life*
  • Risk Assessment
  • Treatment Outcome