My Top 4 Insights on Pelvic Health
Welcome to the Take Flight Wellness Blog! I’m Natalie Toshkoff, and I'm here to explore a crucial yet often overlooked aspect of health—pelvic health. As a pelvic floor physical therapist, my goal is to offer you holistic insights that enhance your well-being. Please note, this content is designed for educational purposes and should not substitute for professional medical advice. If you'd prefer to listen rather than read, you can catch this episode here.
Beyond Kegels: Understanding the Whole Picture
It's a common misconception that kegels are the sole focus of pelvic health. In reality, understanding your pelvic floor involves looking at the entire system, including your hips and trunk. These areas work in unison to support your pelvic floor, and focusing solely on kegels is an outdated approach. By considering the entire 'container' of our core, we can better manage and treat pelvic floor conditions.
Incontinence: It’s Treatable
Many people resign themselves to living with incontinence as a normal part of aging or post-childbirth. However, this isn't something you just have to accept. Pelvic floor therapy provides effective treatments that can greatly improve, if not completely resolve, symptoms of incontinence. With tailored exercises and dedicated therapy, many patients experience significant relief, proving that it's never too late to seek help.
Pelvic Floor Dysfunction: It Affects More Than New Moms
Pelvic floor dysfunction can impact anyone—not just women who have given birth. Athletes, active individuals, and even children might face issues like incontinence, constipation, or pain during activities. It’s crucial for everyone to understand that pelvic floor health is an essential part of overall well-being and not just a concern for a specific group of people.
The Critical Role of Bowel Health
Let’s talk about something a bit uncomfortable yet incredibly important: bowel health. Regular, pain-free bowel movements are crucial to your health. Issues like poor muscle mobility, inadequate nutrition, or insufficient hydration can all affect your digestive system's performance. Enhancing your bowel health can improve pelvic floor conditions and contribute to your overall wellness.
Conclusion
Understanding and managing pelvic health is a vital part of maintaining your quality of life. These key insights not only help dispel common myths but also highlight the importance of comprehensive care.
