Deep Internal Hip Muscles; Very Important, But Often Overlooked

Have you been experiencing persistent hip pain during or after runs? Have you received some form of treatment, only to have lingering pain and dysfunction? Being evaluated by a physical therapist who specializes in pelvic floor may be the answer. 

The pelvic floor is often overlooked in general orthopedic physical therapy clinics. It’s a sensitive area that calls for  further training to effectively assess and treat. Unfortunately, skipping the pelvic floor when it comes to low back, hip, and hamstring issues can mean unnecessary, prolonged pain and dysfunction. 

The muscles and ligaments of the pelvic floor are highly integrated with the hip stabilizer and core muscles. If you are having pain and dysfunction anywhere around your low back or hips, you most likely have dysfunction in your pelvic floor muscles as well. Not addressing these issues can lead to re-injury down the road and/or a constant state of dysfunction that is “livable” but not comfortable; a nagging injury. 

How can pelvic floor physical therapy help?

A physical therapist who specializes in the pelvic floor can assess the external hip, low back, and lower extremity muscles and evaluate your movement efficiently and effectively. What they will also bring is an in-depth knowledge of the deep core muscles and the muscles that help stabilize the low back, pelvis, and hip joints from the inside. Depending on your history of symptoms and source of injury, the pelvic floor PT may advise that an internal exam of your muscles would be beneficial to complete a thorough exam.

Dr. Carolyn Yates at Verity Physical Therapy & Wellness has a background in sports and orthopedics physical therapy with the added benefit of being specialized in the pelvic floor. Dr. Yates is a past D1 track and cross-country runner in college, has competed in multiple triathlons and continues to stay active through running, cycling, and rock climbing. She understands the athlete mentality and can help guide athletes through the murky waters of prolonged injury. Schedule an evaluation with Dr. Yates today to have your whole core evaluated and get back on the road to recovery!