Foundational Core + Pelvic Floor: The Real MVPs
We often hear about the importance of a strong "core," but did you know that your pelvic floor muscles are a crucial, often overlooked, part of this foundational strength? Understanding this connection is key to improving your overall health, stability, and even daily comfort.
What's the Connection?
Your "core" isn't just your abdominal muscles. It's a comprehensive system that includes your diaphragm (breathing muscle), deep abdominal muscles (like the transversus abdominis), multifidus (deep back muscles), and yes, your pelvic floor muscles. Think of it like a cylinder or a canister, with the diaphragm at the top, the pelvic floor at the bottom, and the deep abdominal and back muscles forming the sides.
These muscles work together synergistically. When you breathe, lift something, or even just stand, your brain coordinates these muscles to create stability and support your spine and internal organs as well as maintains continence. A dysfunctional or uncoordinated pelvic floor can compromise the entire core system, leading to various issues, including: leaking, prolapse, and even pain.
The Power of Coordinated Breathing
One of the most powerful tools for optimizing your core and pelvic floor function that we teach our clients and patients at Pursuit Physical Therapy is coordinated breathing. Your diaphragm and pelvic floor are like dance partners; they move in sync with each breath.
As you inhale, your diaphragm moves down, and your pelvic floor naturally softens and lengthens.
As you exhale, your diaphragm moves up, and your pelvic floor gently lifts and contracts.
Learning to consciously coordinate this movement can significantly improve the function of both your pelvic floor and your entire core. It helps ensure your muscles are not only strong but also able to relax and move through their full range of motion, which is just as important as strength!
Benefits of a Strong Pelvic Floor & Core:
When your pelvic floor and core are working together effectively, you can experience a range of benefits, including:
Improved Posture
Reduced Back Pain
Better Bladder & Bowel Control
Enhanced Exercise Performance
Support During Pregnancy & Postpartum Recovery
Improved Sexual Function
Ready to Learn More?
Understanding and strengthening this vital connection can make a significant difference in your quality of life. If you're experiencing issues like back pain, bladder leakage, or just want to improve your overall foundational strength, we're here to help.
We offer personalized assessments and tailored programs to help you understand and strengthen/coordinate your pelvic floor and core effectively.
Book a time to connect with Dr. Amy or even come and join us for a MomStrong class, where we guide you through proper form and progressive overload, building your strength alongside building your pelvic floor.
