Muscle strains of abdominal muscles and groin muscles may occur while being active with exercise or performing more strenuous activities of daily living. Some other common causes of pelvic-related pain may be pelvic floor muscle dysfunction such as weakness or high tonicity, abdominal surgeries (hysterectomy, C-section, prostatectomy), and infections. Effective treatment requires a comprehensive evaluation of the pelvis, lumbar spine, hips, and abdominal area. Hands-on therapy may include joint and soft tissue mobilisation accompanied by muscular re-training and (or) strengthening/muscular endurance training. Treatment may also include modalities such as biofeedback, ultrasound, electrical stimulation, or dry needling. These are effective techniques for normalising muscle tone, improving muscle function, and reducing problematic symptoms.
1) Strains
A muscle strain refers to damages on the muscle or its attaching tendons. It occurs as a result of overusing a particular muscle or muscle group or improper use of the muscle(s) which led to an injury. Muscle strains can be painful and could restrict movement in the affected area for several weeks or months
2) Post Surgeries
Post surgical pain control can help speed up your recovery and may reduce your risk of developing certain complications after surgery, such as pneumonia and blood clots. If your pain is well-controlled, you will be able to complete important tasks, such as walking and deep breathing exercises.
3) Post delivery
Post delivery strains happen after delivery, as the body adjusts to the child’s presence in the mother’s body.
These strains can have a variety of causes, including:
a) A baby who has a low birth weight
b) Premature delivery or prolonged labour
c) An infection during pregnancy
4) Urinary incontinence
Incontinence is the loss of bladder or bowel control, resulting in the involuntary leakage of urine or faeces. Pelvic floor muscle weakness, resulting in a reduction of muscular support for the bladder, uterus or rectum, may be the cause. The muscles are not able to tighten and keep the openings close due to disuse.
Incontinence of urine may be termed:
a) Stress (leakage with physical activity, coughing, sneezing or laughing)
b) Urgency or Frequency (involuntary bladder emptying whenever the sensation of urge is felt)
c) Involuntary leakage of faeces and gas can be the result of chronic constipation or trauma
5) Pelvic Floor Muscle pain
Pelvic floor muscle tension or pain may occur in the anatomical sling of muscles which support the bladder, uterus and rectum. It can be caused by muscle imbalances, nerve or joint problems, scar tissues from surgery, childbirth, endometriosis or after radiation. It can also be caused by haemorrhoids, anal fissures, organ prolapse or constipation.