Do you suffer from pain in your pelvic floor? Then you could be dealing with trigger points in your pelvic floor muscles. In this article we explain what trigger points are, how they cause complaints and what you can do about them. Read on to learn more and find out how to get rid of your pain.
What are trigger points in the pelvic floor muscles?
Trigger points are small knots or spasms in the muscles that can cause pain and discomfort. They can form in any muscle of the body, but in this article we focus on the pelvic floor muscles. These muscles support the organs in the pelvis and help regulate bladder and bowel function.
Symptoms of trigger points in the pelvic floor muscles
- Radiating pain: Trigger points in the pelvic floor muscles can cause radiating pain. This means that the pain can spread from the pelvis to other parts of the body, such as the legs, buttocks, or lower back.
- Low back pain: Many people with trigger points in the pelvic floor muscles also experience low back pain. This can lead to problems moving or sitting.
- Other complaints: In addition to radiating pain and lower back problems, trigger points in the pelvic floor muscles can also cause other symptoms, such as problems with urination or defecation.
Causes of trigger points in the pelvic floor muscles
- Overload: If the pelvic floor muscles are overloaded, trigger points can develop. This can happen due to strenuous physical exertion, incorrect posture or sitting for a long time.
- Wrong movement patterns: Sometimes trigger points in the pelvic floor muscles arise due to wrong movement patterns, for example when lifting heavy objects.
- Stress: Stress and tension can also contribute to trigger points. When you are stressed, you unconsciously tense your muscles, which can lead to trigger points in the pelvic floor muscles.
Diagnosis and research
To determine trigger points in the pelvic floor muscles, a physical therapist or other healthcare professional will examine your muscles. They will look for tender spots and knots in the affected muscle and identify the trigger points.
Treatment of trigger points in the pelvic floor muscles
Dry needling: An effective treatment for trigger points in the pelvic floor muscles is dry needling. A therapist pricks the trigger point with a thin needle, which relaxes the muscle and reduces the pain.
Physical therapy: Physical therapy can also help treat trigger points. The therapist can provide specific exercises and massages to reduce muscle tension and strengthen the pelvic floor muscles.
Other treatments:
There are other treatments that can be effective in addressing trigger points in the pelvic floor muscles, such as heat and cold therapy, relaxation exercises, and adjustments to your daily routine.
- Good posture: Good posture is important to prevent trigger points in the pelvic floor muscles. Make sure you have a straight back both sitting and standing and avoid sitting for long periods of time.
- Relaxation techniques: Practicing relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing or meditation, can help reduce stress and reduce the chance of developing trigger points in the pelvic floor muscles.
- Exercises: Regular exercise and specific exercises for the pelvic floor muscles can help prevent trigger points. Consult with your physiotherapist which exercises are best for your situation.
