Pelvic Floor Flashcards
What are the primary functions of the pelvic floor?
Support, Sphincteric, Sexual, Stability, Sump Pump
What are the 3 layers of the pelvic floor and their respective functions?
Layer 1 – Sexual Function, Layer 2 – Urination, Layer 3 – Support
What is the composition of the levator ani group?
Pubococcygeus, Puborectalis, Iliococcygeus
Describe the pudendal nerve and its significance.
Motor sensory and autonomic (sympathetic), passes between the piriformis & coccygeus muscles, leaves the pelvis through the greater sciatic foramen.
What is the correct way for the pelvic floor to function?
Able to contract, relax, and lengthen under conscious control
What causes urinary urge incontinence?
Bladder irritants or infections, urge deferment, holding urine too long
What is stress urinary incontinence (SUI) and how can it be managed?
Sudden intra-abdominal pressure, managed by anticipatory pelvic floor muscle contraction
What is mixed incontinence?
Combination of more than one type of incontinence
What is functional incontinence?
Incontinence due to external factors like mobility or cognitive issues
What is pelvic floor dysfunction (PFD) and its common symptoms?
Weakness, tension, lack of coordination
How does dyssynergic defecation occur and how is it treated?
Disruption in coordination between abdominal and pelvic floor muscles during defecation; treated with diaphragm breathing, pelvic floor muscle coordination, toileting techniques
What is the ‘KNACK’ technique?
Anticipatory pelvic floor muscle contraction to prevent leakage
What are the risk factors and symptoms of pelvic organ prolapse?
Childbirth, connective tissue disorders, chronic constipation, obesity; symptoms include pelvic pressure, organ bulging, and urinary issues
What are the different types of coccyx and their relevance?
Type I: gentle ventral curvature; Type II: prominent ventral curvature; Type III: acute anterior angulation; Type IV: subluxation; Type V: retroverted; Type VI: scoliotic
What are the common causes and treatments for coccydynia?
Prolonged sitting, trauma, childbirth; treatments include improving spinal mobility, stool consistency, pelvic ring stability, and ergonomics
How does diaphragm breathing benefit pelvic floor function?
Promotes PF muscle lengthening, CNS downregulation, digestion
What are the benefits of pelvic floor coordination exercises?
Promotes coordination, full range of motion, strength; starts with diaphragm breath
Describe the core brace exercise and its importance.
Promotes spinal stability, breathing during sub-maximal efforts, supports pelvic organs during functional activity
What is the ‘zip up’ technique in core/pelvic bracing?
Pelvic floor gently lifts/contracts, draw belly button toward spine, exhale with exertion
How is constipation related to low back pain (LBP)?
Colon distension and straining applies pressure to sacral nerves
What is the significance of pelvic floor assessment in LBP?
95.3% of LBP female patients have PF dysfunction; screening and referral are important
What are the primary treatment methods for dyssynergic defecation?
Diaphragm breathing, pelvic floor muscle coordination, toileting techniques, biofeedback
What is pudendal neuralgia and its common treatments?
Sharp shooting burning or tingling pain; treated with internal soft tissue work, nerve glides, and diaphragm breathing
What are the key points to remember about treating pelvic floor dysfunction?
Understand anatomy, symptoms, and proper referral; treat co-existing conditions
Why is proper breathing technique important for pelvic floor rehabilitation?
Prevents leakage, supports pelvic organs, and enhances core stability
How do you perform a proper pelvic floor assessment?
External and internal examination, focus on patient comfort and proper technique
What is the role of the pelvic floor in intraabdominal pressure management?
Works with diaphragm, abdominal, and back muscles to manage pressure
What are the anatomical structures involved in pelvic floor support?
Muscles, ligaments, and fascia support pelvic organs and provide stability
Describe the significance of pelvic floor muscle (PFM) relaxation.
Essential for proper function and reducing tension-related issues
How can pelvic floor dysfunction be screened in orthopedic practice?
Screen for symptoms, understand referral process, and co-treat with pelvic floor specialists
What are the anatomical differences in male and female pelvic floors?
Male and female pelvic floors have similar structures but different functions and risk factors
