Understanding Pelvic Floor Therapy: Beyond Kegels and Postpartum

When people hear “pelvic floor therapy,” they often think of postpartum care or doing Kegels—and then stop there. But the pelvic floor plays a far bigger role in movement, performance, and long-term health than most people realize. And no, it’s not just for new moms.

At Steady State Health, we help runners, lifters, and active adults reclaim comfort, strength, and control through a blended approach to orthopedic and pelvic floor physical therapy.

What Is the Pelvic Floor (and Why Does It Matter)?

The pelvic floor is a dynamic group of muscles, ligaments, and connective tissue that stretches across the base of your pelvis. Think of it like a supportive hammock—only it’s responsible for much more than just holding things up.

It works in tandem with your diaphragm, deep core, and back muscles to form what’s called the “core canister.” This internal pressure system helps stabilize your body with every step, lift, breath, and impact.

So whether you’re squatting heavy, running hills, or chasing your kids, your pelvic floor is working behind the scenes to:

• Support your pelvic and abdominal organs
• Regulate pressure during movement and breath
• Maintain continence and bladder control
• Contribute to spinal and pelvic stability
• Influence sexual function and comfort
• Circulate blood and lymphatic fluid (the “sump pump” effect)

It’s Not Just About Strength

One of the biggest myths in pelvic health is that “you just need to do more Kegels.”

The truth? Pelvic floor dysfunction is often a coordination issue, not just a strength issue. You need the ability to contract and relax those muscles in sync with breath, load, and movement. Over-relying on tension can actually make symptoms worse.

We help our clients:

• Reconnect with breath and pressure management
• Build strength without over-bracing
• Improve mobility and core control in real-world positions

Who Can Benefit from Pelvic PT?

You don’t need a specific diagnosis to benefit. Many clients come in because something just feels “off”—or because they’ve been told nothing’s wrong, but symptoms persist.

Common reasons to seek care:

• Leaking during workouts or daily life

• Feeling of pelvic pressure or heaviness

• Pain during running, lifting, or sex

• Recurring low back, hip, or SI joint discomfort

• Difficulty connecting with core strength

A Blended Approach: Why Orthopedic + Pelvic PT Matters

At Steady State, we believe your body doesn’t work in isolated parts. That’s why we combine:

• Orthopedic assessment (mobility, strength, gait, movement patterns)

• Pelvic floor evaluation (internal or external, as appropriate)

• Education and coaching to build long-term capacity—not just fix symptoms

This means we look at how your hips, core, breathing, training load, and lifestyle all contribute to what you’re experiencing—and build a plan that supports your goals.

What’s Next?

If you're wondering whether pelvic PT might be right for you, you’re not alone—and you don’t have to guess. Whether you’re managing a known condition like prolapse or incontinence, or you’re just feeling disconnected from your body, we’re here to help.

📍 Serving runners and active adults across Portland, South Portland, Scarborough, and Falmouth—and virtually across the U.S.

👉 Ready to feel strong from the inside out? Schedule a free discovery call with one of our Pelvic PTs to learn more about our pelvic health services.