Embarking on better pelvic health is crucial for overall well-being. Today, with Dr. Melanie Carminati, a distinguished Doctor of Physical Therapy and founder of Inspira Physical Therapy, we explore endometriosis's impact on pelvic floor anatomy, receiving expert advice on treatments and exercises.
Understanding Endometriosis and Its Effects:
Dr. Carminati highlights the intricate relationship between endometriosis and pelvic health, revealing that 93.3% of women with endometriosis experience pain. Additionally, 75% exhibit increased tone in their levator ani muscles, emphasizing the prevalence of hypertonic pelvic floor issues among this group.
Research Findings and Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy:
Systematic reviews confirm that pelvic floor physical therapy reduces pain and improves overall quality of life for individuals with endometriosis. This underscores the transformative impact of targeted physical therapy interventions on managing pelvic pain.
Demystifying the Pelvic Floor:
Dr. Carminati explains the pelvic floor's anatomy as a three-layered muscle group and its significance in understanding muscle tension, dysfunctions, and treatments.
Objective Assessments and Holistic Considerations:
She begins with objective assessments, revealing the prevalence of hypertonic pelvic floor muscles and emphasizing the need for tailored interventions. She also considers diaphragm breathing dysfunctions and fascial restrictions for a comprehensive evaluation.
Connecting Through Subjective Experiences:
Dr. Carminati acknowledges subjective experiences such as dyspareunia, urinary issues, and pain, fostering empathy and encouraging individuals to seek personalized solutions.
The Pelvic Floor's Role in the Deep Functional Core:
She discusses the pelvic floor's connection to the deep functional core, emphasizing its interplay with the diaphragm and its disruption in dysfunctional pelvic health.
Practical Insights into Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy:
Dr. Carminati outlines what to expect during therapy, covering communication, sexual function, and physical assessments to tailor treatment plans effectively.
Layered Approach to Therapy:
She employs a layered approach, combining external observations, palpation, and internal assessments to create tailored treatment plans.
Manual Therapy and Osteopathic Techniques:
Various manual therapy techniques, including Winback radio frequency therapy, aim to relax hypertonic pelvic floor muscles and restore pelvic health.
Osteopathic Techniques for CNS Regulation:
Osteopathic techniques like craniosacral therapy aim to regulate the central nervous system, crucial for pain management.
Pelvic Floor PT Treatments and Exercise Considerations:
Neuromuscular reeducation and exercise, such as diaphragm breathing and Pilates-based core reeducation, are integral components of therapy.
Building a Collaborative Support Team:
Dr. Carminati advocates for a multidisciplinary team approach to pelvic health, fostering collaboration between healthcare providers and specialists.
Validation and Encouragement:
She validates individuals' experiences and encourages them to seek supportive healthcare, emphasizing the importance of trust and collaboration in rehabilitation.
