Pelvic Floor

Question 1

What are the primary functions of the pelvic floor?

Answer 1

Support, Sphincteric, Sexual, Stability, Sump Pump

Question 2

What are the 3 layers of the pelvic floor and their respective functions?

Answer 2

Layer 1 – Sexual Function, Layer 2 – Urination, Layer 3 – Support

Question 3

What is the composition of the levator ani group?

Answer 3

Pubococcygeus, Puborectalis, Iliococcygeus

Question 4

Describe the pudendal nerve and its significance.

Answer 4

Motor sensory and autonomic (sympathetic), passes between the piriformis & coccygeus muscles, leaves the pelvis through the greater sciatic foramen.

Question 5

What is the correct way for the pelvic floor to function?

Answer 5

Able to contract, relax, and lengthen under conscious control

Question 6

What causes urinary urge incontinence?

Answer 6

Bladder irritants or infections, urge deferment, holding urine too long

Question 7

What is stress urinary incontinence (SUI) and how can it be managed?

Answer 7

Sudden intra-abdominal pressure, managed by anticipatory pelvic floor muscle contraction

Question 8

What is mixed incontinence?

Answer 8

Combination of more than one type of incontinence

Question 9

What is functional incontinence?

Answer 9

Incontinence due to external factors like mobility or cognitive issues

Question 10

What is pelvic floor dysfunction (PFD) and its common symptoms?

Answer 10

Weakness, tension, lack of coordination

Question 11

How does dyssynergic defecation occur and how is it treated?

Answer 11

Disruption in coordination between abdominal and pelvic floor muscles during defecation; treated with diaphragm breathing, pelvic floor muscle coordination, toileting techniques

Question 12

What is the ‘KNACK’ technique?

Answer 12

Anticipatory pelvic floor muscle contraction to prevent leakage

Question 13

What are the risk factors and symptoms of pelvic organ prolapse?

Answer 13

Childbirth, connective tissue disorders, chronic constipation, obesity; symptoms include pelvic pressure, organ bulging, and urinary issues

Question 14

What are the different types of coccyx and their relevance?

Answer 14

Type I: gentle ventral curvature; Type II: prominent ventral curvature; Type III: acute anterior angulation; Type IV: subluxation; Type V: retroverted; Type VI: scoliotic

Question 15

What are the common causes and treatments for coccydynia?

Answer 15

Prolonged sitting, trauma, childbirth; treatments include improving spinal mobility, stool consistency, pelvic ring stability, and ergonomics

Question 16

How does diaphragm breathing benefit pelvic floor function?

Answer 16

Promotes PF muscle lengthening, CNS downregulation, digestion

Question 17

What are the benefits of pelvic floor coordination exercises?

Answer 17

Promotes coordination, full range of motion, strength; starts with diaphragm breath

Question 18

Describe the core brace exercise and its importance.

Answer 18

Promotes spinal stability, breathing during sub-maximal efforts, supports pelvic organs during functional activity

Question 19

What is the ‘zip up’ technique in core/pelvic bracing?

Answer 19

Pelvic floor gently lifts/contracts, draw belly button toward spine, exhale with exertion

Question 20

How is constipation related to low back pain (LBP)?

Answer 20

Colon distension and straining applies pressure to sacral nerves

Question 21

What is the significance of pelvic floor assessment in LBP?

Answer 21

95.3% of LBP female patients have PF dysfunction; screening and referral are important

Question 22

What are the primary treatment methods for dyssynergic defecation?

Answer 22

Diaphragm breathing, pelvic floor muscle coordination, toileting techniques, biofeedback

Question 23

What is pudendal neuralgia and its common treatments?

Answer 23

Sharp shooting burning or tingling pain; treated with internal soft tissue work, nerve glides, and diaphragm breathing

Question 24

What are the key points to remember about treating pelvic floor dysfunction?

Answer 24

Understand anatomy, symptoms, and proper referral; treat co-existing conditions

Question 25

Why is proper breathing technique important for pelvic floor rehabilitation?

Answer 25

Prevents leakage, supports pelvic organs, and enhances core stability

Question 26

How do you perform a proper pelvic floor assessment?

Answer 26

External and internal examination, focus on patient comfort and proper technique

Question 27

What is the role of the pelvic floor in intraabdominal pressure management?

Answer 27

Works with diaphragm, abdominal, and back muscles to manage pressure

Question 28

What are the anatomical structures involved in pelvic floor support?

Answer 28

Muscles, ligaments, and fascia support pelvic organs and provide stability

Question 29

Describe the significance of pelvic floor muscle (PFM) relaxation.

Answer 29

Essential for proper function and reducing tension-related issues

Question 30

How can pelvic floor dysfunction be screened in orthopedic practice?

Answer 30

Screen for symptoms, understand referral process, and co-treat with pelvic floor specialists

Question 31

What are the anatomical differences in male and female pelvic floors?

Answer 31

Male and female pelvic floors have similar structures but different functions and risk factors