Understanding Pelvic Health: An Osteopathic Perspective
Written by Mirae Oldmeadow from Cranbourne Osteopathy
Pelvic health is a crucial component of our overall well-being, involving the coordinated function of muscles, bones, and organs within the pelvic region. Despite its significance in everyday functions like bladder and bowel control, sexual activity, and childbirth, it is often neglected until a problem arises. Pelvic health concerns, whether in the form of discomfort, pain or dysfunction, can profoundly affect your daily life. At Cranbourne Osteopathy, we believe that understanding and maintaining pelvic health is vital for a comfortable life and a functional body.
Common Pelvic Health Concerns
Pelvic health issues can affect both men and women. Some prevalent conditions include:
Urinary Incontinence – The involuntary leakage of urine, often triggered by activities like coughing, sneezing or exercising.
Pelvic Organ Prolapse – When organs such as the bladder or uterus descend due to weakened support structures.
Pelvic Pain – Chronic discomfort in the pelvic region, potentially linked to conditions like endometriosis, interstitial cystitis or post-surgical scarring.
Sexual Dysfunction – Pain or reduced sensation during sexual activity, often due to muscular tension, scar tissue or pelvic floor imbalances.
Osteopathic Approach to Pelvic Health
So what sets osteopathy apart from other pelvic health modalities… Osteopathy in general, provides a holistic, hands-on approach to your body by addressing the whole body in relation to your complaint; including muscles, bones and joints, fascia and connective tissue, blood and nerve supply and mental health. Our approach to pelvic floor function is no different!
At Cranbourne Osteopathy, we take a comprehensive approach to pelvic health, incorporating:
Thorough Assessments – Evaluating posture, breathing, scar tissue mobility and pelvic floor muscle tension and function to identify contributing factors.
Manual Therapy – Using hands-on techniques to release tension, improve circulation and restore natural movement and activation of muscles in the pelvic and abdominal areas.
Breathwork and Core Rehabilitation – Teaching strategies to optimise breathing patterns, relieve pressure on the pelvic floor and restore balance.
Scar Tissue Release – Working to reduce restrictions from cesarean births, laparoscopies or other abdominal surgeries to improve movement and decrease discomfort.
Collaborative Care – Working alongside other healthcare professionals, including pilates instructors, midwives and OBGYNs and bodyworkers to ensure the best outcomes for our clients.
When to Seek Treatment
Consider seeking professional help from your local pelvic health osteopath at Cranbourne Osteopathy if you experience any of the below pelvic health symptoms:
Chronic Pelvic Pain – Discomfort that interferes with daily activities or intensifies over time.
Bladder Dysfunction – Symptoms such as light leakage or incontinence, urinary urgency or retention.
Bowel Dysfunction – Including fecal incontinence, urgency, gas control issues, constipation or incomplete bowel emptying.
Pain During Intimacy – Including discomfort, tightness or reduced sensation.
Postpartum or Post-Surgical Recovery – Difficulty engaging core muscles, tightness around scars or pelvic discomfort after a cesarean birth or surgery.
Pelvic Floor Muscle Issues – Weakness, overactivity, heaviness or spasms, including vaginismus.
Genital or Vulvar Pain – Discomfort in the genital area.
Coccyx (Tailbone) Pain – Persistent pain in the tailbone area.
Menstrual Pain (Dysmenorrhea) – Pain during periods.
Pudendal Nerve Pain – Pain affecting the pelvic region and genitals.
Prolapse – Pelvic organ prolapse into the vagina wall.
We can also assist with preparing your pelvic floor and body for pregnancy and childbirth and perform a thorough postpartum assessment of your pelvic floor.
Our Expertise at Cranbourne Osteopathy
Our pelvic health osteopaths Mirae Oldmeadow and Emily Colgan, have specialised training in women’s health and pelvic floor presentations. We offer services such as:
Pregnancy and birth preparation
Postpartum recovery and cesarean scar therapy
Mastitis and breast care
Pelvic floor rehabilitation and retraining connection with breath
If you’re unsure whether a pelvic health appointment is right for you, our reception team is available to discuss your concerns and guide you accordingly.
Prioritising pelvic health is essential for long-term well-being. At Cranbourne Osteopathy, we are committed to helping you restore comfort, strength and confidence in your body. Reach out today to begin your treatment plan!
Cranbourne Osteopathy
Address: 108/1060 Thompsons Rd Cranbourne West 3977
Phone Number: 03 8790 0136
Email: reception@cranbourneosteopathy.com.au
Website: cranbourneosteopathy.com.au
Book Online Link: cranbourneosteopathy.com.au/book-now
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