LiM Method's Approach to Strengthening Pelvic Floor Muscles
Beyond Kegels: Redefining Pelvic Floor Strengthening
In the realm of pelvic floor strengthening, the Kegel has long held the spotlight. But is it truly the optimal solution, and is it the exclusive path to tackling pelvic floor dysfunction? Just as we don't isolate bicep curls when sculpting our arms, we have to rethink the approach to pelvic health. The pelvic floor is a team player, harmonizing with the core, hips, spine, and beyond to reinforce the midsection. Join us in unraveling the myth of isolated exercises and exploring a more comprehensive strategy for pelvic well-being.
The Myth of Isolation:
Imagine sculpting your arms solely with bicep curls—ineffective, right? The same principle applies to pelvic health. Our pelvic floor operates synergistically with surrounding muscles. We must engage the entire network to achieve optimal results, from the core to the hips and spine. The evidence goes well beyond Kegels. Rethinking the conventional wisdom, recent studies highlight the limitations of Kegels. One study, Pelvic-Floor Muscle Function in Women With Pelvic Organ Prolapse, using EMG evaluation unveils the supremacy of functional exercises like lunges and squats in activating the pelvic floor. Another study emphasizes the role of lateral hip rotators and the obturator internus muscle in enhancing pelvic floor force production.
Kegels' Shortcomings:
Step into the nuanced world of pelvic health, where a holistic approach reigns supreme. Muscles are all interconnected, and this method ensures a dynamic and varied approach to achieving the pinnacle of pelvic floor strength. In collaboration with the exercises provided by the pelvic floor PT, Coulee Health suggests incorporating a regular routine of Functional Progression. This practice is crucial for conditioning the pelvic floor to collaborate with the core, seamlessly integrating into upright, full-body movements.
Referencing studies like Borello-France et al. (1) and Crawford (2), Pelvic floor muscle motor unit recruitment: Kegels vs specialized movement, we witness a paradigm shift from isolated Kegels to dynamic movements, aligning with a philosophy that embraces the synergy of muscles for optimal pelvic well-being.
In this light, it seems that Kegels are one way to strengthen the pelvic floor, but they certainly aren’t the only way—and they may not even be the most effective! Kegel exercises were created 75 years ago and women still leak. Potty training for children doesn't involve static exercises; it's rooted in dynamic movements. Stress incontinence is not a bladder problem, it is a muscle weakness problem. Weak muscles require strengthening. Strengthening requires movement. That’s where our holistic approach to pelvic floor strengthening comes in.