Skip to content

Pelvic Floor and Back Pain: Why They Often Travel Together

Many people in Erin Mills and Mississauga experience back pain, but few realize that issues with the pelvic floor can contribute to discomfort in the lower back. The pelvic floor, a group of muscles and connective tissue that supports the bladder, uterus (in women), and bowel, plays a crucial role in posture, core stability, and overall musculoskeletal health. When these muscles are weak, tight, or imbalanced, they can influence spinal alignment and contribute to back pain.



At Aurika Wellness, our physiotherapists specialize in pelvic floor rehabilitation and back pain management, helping patients restore function, reduce pain, and improve quality of life.


Understanding the Pelvic Floor


The pelvic floor is a network of muscles, ligaments, and fascia located at the base of the pelvis. Its primary functions include:
Signs of weak muscles include:

  • Supporting pelvic organs: Bladder, uterus, and rectum
  • Maintaining continence: Controlling bladder and bowel function
  • Contributing to core stability: Working with the diaphragm, deep abdominal muscles, and spinal stabilizers


When pelvic floor muscles are weak, tight, or uncoordinated, they can disrupt the way forces are distributed through the spine and hips, often leading to back pain, hip discomfort, or postural issues.










How Pelvic Floor Dysfunction Contributes to Back Pain

Several mechanisms explain the connection between pelvic floor dysfunction and back pain:

  • Reduced flexibility or difficulty performing full movements
  • Muscle tightness: Overactive pelvic floor muscles can create tightness and discomfort that radiates to the lower back.
  • Altered posture: Pelvic tilts caused by imbalance can place extra stress on lumbar vertebrae.
  • Breathing patterns: Dysfunctional coordination between the diaphragm and pelvic floor can increase abdominal and spinal tension.


Understanding these interactions is key to addressing both back pain and pelvic floor issues effectively.


Signs You Might Have Pelvic Floor-Related Back Pain

While lower back pain has many potential causes, certain signs may indicate a pelvic floor contribution:

  • Pain or pressure in the pelvis, bladder, or lower abdomen
  • Difficulty controlling urine or bowel movements, especially during activity
  • Discomfort during sitting, standing, or walking for prolonged periods
  • Tightness in the pelvic region that worsens with physical activity or stress
  • Co-existing low back pain that doesn’t respond fully to conventional back exercises

    Recognizing these symptoms early allows for targeted treatment and faster recovery.




    pelvic massage

    How Pelvic Floor Physiotherapy Helps
    Pelvic floor physiotherapy focuses on assessing and rehabilitating the muscles, connective tissue, and coordination of the pelvic region. Treatment may include:
  • Muscle assessment: Evaluating strength, flexibility, and coordination of the pelvic floor
  • Targeted exercises: Strengthening weak muscles and relaxing overactive muscles
  • Manual therapy: Hands-on techniques to release tension and improve mobility
  • Core integration: Teaching proper engagement of the pelvic floor with deep abdominal and spinal stabilizing muscles
  • Postural guidance: Educating on posture, lifting mechanics, and movement patterns

    A physiotherapist can also work on strategies to prevent recurrence of both pelvic floor and back pain.

    Tips for Supporting Pelvic Floor Health at HomeEven Even with professional care, daily habits are crucial to support recovery:
  • Practice proper posture: Avoid slouching and maintain a neutral spine while sitting or standing.
  • Engage your core safely: Learn to activate pelvic floor muscles in coordination with your deep abdominal muscles.
  • Stretch regularly: Focus on hip flexors, glutes, and lower back to reduce tension.
  • Avoid straining: When lifting, use proper techniques to reduce pressure on the pelvic floor and spine.
  • Stay active: Low-impact exercises like walking, swimming, or yoga support strength and mobility.

    Consistent attention to these habits enhances treatment outcomes and helps prevent future pain episodes.

    When to Seek Professional Help
    Consult a pelvic floor physiotherapist in Erin Mills if you notice:
  • Persistent lower back pain despite general exercise or stretching
  • Urinary or bowel dysfunction alongside back discomfort
  • Pain during sexual activity or prolonged sitting
  • Difficulty performing daily activities due to pelvic or back pain

    At Aurika Wellness, our therapists provide individualized assessments and treatment plans, integrating pelvic floor and general physiotherapy for optimal outcomes. Direct billing with insurance providers is available, making access convenient for patients in Mississauga.
    Appointment (1)


 

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Read On