Your Running is Affecting your Pelvic Floor,What you need to know!
Hey there runners! Have you ever wondered about the intricate dance your body performs with every stride you take? Just me? Well, running, my friends, is more than just moving your legs – it’s a complex biomechanical marvel. But here’s a twist: Pelvic Floor Dysfunction (PFD) can throw a wrench in the works. Yes, you heard me right. That very foundation of our lower torso can impact everything from your sprint to your marathon finish. So, let’s dive deep, shall we?
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Ever Thought Running Could Not Mess with Your Pelvic Floor?
Think Again!
Imagine this: You’re out there, hitting the pavement, feeling unstoppable, when suddenly, your body’s very support system – the pelvic floor – starts to wave the white flag.
Strange, huh? Well, not so much. Given that a whopping 13% of folks in the USA are out there running regularly, it’s high time we chat about how this beloved activity affects our pelvic floor.
The Runner’s Plight: More Than Just Sore Muscles
Ah, the joys of running: the wind in your hair, the scenery changing, and then… the not-so-joyous pelvic floor dysfunction sneaking up on you. From knee to hip injuries, runners, we’ve got our work cut out for us.
Related Article: Low Back Pain in Runners
But did you know that these other injuries might be lingering because of our pelvic floors throwing a tantrum? Yeah, it’s a thing.
So even though you are working hard and doing all the things for your back, knees, and hips. You might b stalled in your progress due to pelvic floor dysfunction.
Additionally, pelvic floor dysfunction can be the cause of low back pain as well as constipation and urine leakage when running.
How Running Can Affect the Pelvic Floor Function
The pelvic floor, a heroic group of muscles cradling our pelvis, plays defense against pressure from coughs to sneezes and, you guessed it, running. But when the going gets tough, and we’re talking 6000 steps of tough per hour of running, this hero can get overwhelmed, leading to a host of unwelcome issues like urine leakage (yup, it happens) and reduced intimacy comfort.
The pelvic floor supports many of our organs such as the utereus, bladder, and intestines. It also helps resist the pressure coming from the abdomen and direct towards the pelvic area.
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When we are running, the impact of the exercise can directly pressurize the pelvic area and the muscles of the pelvic floor are responsible for cushioning the area.
However, the pelvic floor won’t be able to handle excess pressure forever without some support. Instead, it will get weakened. A weak pelvic floor can cause many health problems. This includes urine loss (in young ladies as well), lower comfort level during sex, back pain, constipation, and high chances of organ prolapse.
Pelvic Floor Rehab: More Than Just Kegels
So what do you do as a runner (male and female) of all ages and abilities to keep things in check down there? Rehab, or in many cases and best case scenario, prehab.
You will get a complete evaluation from your physical therapist, yes you can do this online with Dr. Abby! This will include your medical history and a detailed description of why you are seeking out pelvic floor rehab. You will probably get questioned about your sex life, bowel and bladder function and surgical or child bearing history. This just ensures I know the extent of what is going on.
Related: Virtual PT with Dr. Abby
Your treatment will be very specialized and personalized to meet your individual needs and goals. We will look at all areas of your body and come up with a comprehensive plan to keep you running and get rid of all the unwanted stuff.
Your Pelvic Floor and You
So, what’s the takeaway from our pelvic floor adventure?
Whether it’s getting back to your favorite running trails or just enjoying a day without worrying about the nearest restroom, pelvic floor therapy might just be your ticket to a happier, healthier you.
FAQs: Your Burning Questions Answered
- Will pelvic floor therapy make my running shoes jealous? In about two weeks of dedication, you’ll start to see changes, making both you and your running shoes pretty darn happy.
- Can running give my pelvic floor muscles a six-pack? Running’s great, but it’s like a love-hate relationship with your pelvic floor. High impact = high strain, so let’s balance that with some dedicated strengthening.
- Signs I’m on a first-name basis with pelvic floor dysfunction?: If you’re having a tougher time than usual in the loo or you’re on a never-ending bathroom tour, it might be time for a chat with a pelvic floor therapist.
- What’s in it for me with pelvic floor therapy? Imagine a world where your pelvic floor muscles are the unsung heroes supporting your organs, spicing up your love life, and keeping you confident, both on and off the running track.
Final Thoughts on Pelvic Floor Dysfunction in Runners
There you have it, runners. Pelvic floor health might not be the first thing on our minds when we lace up, but it’s crucial to keeping us doing what we love. So, here’s to running free, without fear, and with all the support we need. Got more questions or feel inspired to take the next step towards pelvic health? The Runner Doc is just a click away. Here’s to hitting the pavement, supported and strong, from the ground up!
AFFILIATE DISCLOSURE
As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. This post may contain affiliate links. If you use these links to buy something we may earn a commission. The Site may contain links to affiliate websites, and we receive an affiliate commission for any purchases made by you on the affiliate website using such links.
All information should be used as a tool for more knowledge on the subject topic, to use as references for later articles where applicable, or just to keep it in mind during future exercise routines or activities.
This article is not meant to give medical advice or to replace professional health care. Should any ailment occur please contact your doctor or physical therapist immediately to keep yourself safe and prevent further damage.
The author is not liable for any personal or commercial damage directly or indirectly related to the content hereof. You are responsible for adhering to local laws and regulations regarding health & safety, including proper use of equipment or safety gear, and compliance with governing healthcare associations, and state, and federal regulations.
AFFILIATE DISCLOSURE
As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. This post may contain affiliate links. If you use these links to buy something we may earn a commission. The Site may contain links to affiliate websites, and we receive an affiliate commission for any purchases made by you on the affiliate website using such links.
All information should be used as a tool for more knowledge on the subject topic, to use as references for later articles where applicable, or just to keep it in mind during future exercise routines or activities.
This article is not meant to give medical advice or to replace professional health care. Should any ailment occur please contact your doctor or physical therapist immediately to keep yourself safe and prevent further damage.
The author is not liable for any personal or commercial damage directly or indirectly related to the content hereof. You are responsible for adhering to local laws and regulations regarding health & safety, including proper use of equipment or safety gear, and compliance with governing healthcare associations, and state, and federal regulations.
How Running is Affecting your Pelvic Floor
Dr. Abby Siler, PT, DPT is a Physical Therapist with 10 years of experience in a variety of settings. She has spent the majority of her time treating athletes in orthopedic clinics and worker’s compensation cases. She is a runner herself for the past 15 years and a lifelong athlete. Dr. Abby loves to teach runners how to stay injury free and out of her clinic.
