Pelvic Floor Dysfunction and Pain: Osteopathic Evaluation and Treatment

Pelvic floor dysfunction and pain are often complex, interconnected conditions that can affect mobility, posture, digestion, urinary or bowel function, and overall quality of life. These issues may present as localized pelvic discomfort, pressure, or changes in muscle control, but they commonly involve contributing imbalances throughout the spine, hips, and diaphragm. At a practice specializing in Osteopathic Neuromusculoskeletal Medicine, we provide comprehensive evaluation and gentle, hands-on treatment to address pelvic floor dysfunction and pain holistically, supporting balanced mechanics, circulation, and function across the entire body.

Understanding Pelvic Floor Dysfunction and Pain

The pelvic floor consists of a group of muscles, ligaments, and connective tissues that support the bladder, uterus or prostate, and rectum while assisting with core stability and movement. When these structures become overly tense, weak, or uncoordinated, pelvic floor dysfunction may develop. This can result in pain, urinary urgency, bowel irregularities, or discomfort with sitting and daily movement.

Pelvic floor dysfunction and pain are rarely isolated problems; they often involve underlying tension or misalignment in the pelvis, hips, lower back, or diaphragm. Osteopathic medicine views the pelvic floor as integrated with overall postural balance and nervous system regulation, recognizing that both physical and emotional stress can influence these structures.

Common Causes and Contributing Factors

Pelvic floor dysfunction can develop from a variety of mechanical, physiological, and hormonal influences, including:

• Pregnancy, childbirth, or postpartum recovery.

• Pelvic or abdominal surgery and scar tissue restrictions.

• Pelvic trauma, falls, or chronic strain.

• Postural or spinal imbalance.

• Chronic constipation, straining, or respiratory dysfunction.

• Stress and anxiety leading to chronic pelvic muscle tension.

These factors can disturb muscle tone, tissue elasticity, and coordination, often causing pain that radiates into the hips, abdomen, or lower back. Without addressing the body’s broader structural context, discomfort often persists or recurs.

Who Is Affected

Pelvic floor dysfunction and pain can affect both females and males of all ages. Females may experience symptoms during or after pregnancy, hormonal transitions, or pelvic surgery; while males may develop pelvic pain following injury, chronic postural strain, or other musculoskeletal conditions. Because pelvic floor dysfunction often involves overlapping systems—the musculoskeletal, nervous, and visceral—many patients benefit from a comprehensive approach that includes Osteopathic evaluation.

The Role of Osteopathic Neuromusculoskeletal Medicine

Osteopathic Neuromusculoskeletal Medicine offers a holistic, evidence-informed approach to treating pelvic floor dysfunction and pain. An Osteopathic Physician (DO) trained in this specialty performs a detailed assessment of posture, pelvic mechanics, spinal mobility, diaphragm function, and soft tissue balance.

Treatment uses gentle manual techniques—including myofascial release, balanced ligamentous tension, visceral manipulation, and Cranial Osteopathy—to reduce strain, improve circulation, and enhance coordination throughout the pelvic region and adjacent structures. The approach is always tailored to each patient’s sensitivity, comfort, and specific presentation.

By optimizing pelvic, spinal, and diaphragmatic motion, Osteopathic treatment helps restore balance within the neuromusculoskeletal system, reduce pain, and support improved function. This integrative approach complements physical therapy, pelvic floor rehabilitation, and medical management, providing safe and effective support for long-term stability.

Seeking Care for Chronic Pelvic Discomfort

If pelvic pain, pressure, or dysfunction interferes with daily activity or recovery after childbirth, injury, or surgery, an Osteopathic evaluation may provide valuable relief. Addressing structural and neurological contributors early can accelerate healing, reduce pain recurrence, and improve coordination and comfort. Many patients report decreased tension, better mobility, and improved confidence in movement following Osteopathic care.

Our practice specializes in the evaluation and treatment of pelvic floor dysfunction and pain through a comprehensive, patient-centered approach. If you are experiencing chronic pelvic discomfort, postural imbalance, or pain affecting your daily activities, we encourage you to schedule an appointment with Dr. Levi. Through thoughtful assessment and gentle, hands-on treatment, we can help you relieve pain, restore function, and support your overall well-being.