Mark came in to Dynamic Sports Physical Therapy in New York City after experiencing symptoms of pelvic floor dysfunction. He complained of urinary frequency, tension in his pelvis, pain when sitting, and tightness in his buttocks. He explained that he had suffered a tailbone injury in college and believed it was the event that led to the onset of his symptoms. Mark also reported that stress, as well as a lack of sleep, both seemed to make his symptoms worse.
After learning of Mark’s injury history and set of symptoms, his therapist performed a full-scale evaluation to gather a clearer understanding of what was bothering him. When palpation was performed—in which the therapist examined the size, shape, and other features of various body parts with touch—it was found that Mark had a lot of sensitivity and tightness in pelvic floor muscles, abdominal muscles, lower back muscles, buttocks, and hamstrings. Palpation in the pelvic area also brought on symptoms of an urge to urinate. Mark’s tailbone was shifted and sensitive to touch, and his pelvis was shifted as well.
Before beginning treatment, Mark stated that his primary goals were to reduce discomfort with sitting, reduce his urge to urinate, and alleviate some of tightness and pain. Based on Mark’s condition, it was decided that acupuncture would be the most appropriate treatment to help him accomplish his goals.
A total of 14 acupuncture and cupping treatments were provided to address Mark’s symptoms. It was also found that Mark had a habitual pattern of clenching his buttocks when he was stressed, and when he became aware of the behavior, he started to work on eliminating the habit. Mark was also advised to do yoga that specifically targeted the pelvic floor five times a week. Finally, he was instructed to keep a food journal, and together, we worked through it to help him eliminate inflammatory foods from his diet.
After completing acupuncture, Mark reported that he no longer experienced pain with sitting. His urinary urgency now only occurs occasionally, when he is very stressed or drinks too much coffee, and he no longer feels any pain or sensitivity around his tailbone.
Mark had the following to say about his treatment experience with us: “Thank you for making me feel so comfortable and allowing me to open up about my symptoms. I am very happy to be pain-free and thank you for showing me how much lifestyle can have an impact on health.”
Experience similar results at Dynamic Sports Physical Therapy in New York City
Mark’s story shows that some physical issues may somewhat uncomfortable to bring up to a healthcare provider, but once they are shared with us, we can always find the best solution to address them. We wish Mark continued success in the future, and encourage any of you dealing with physical ailments of your own to visit us at Dynamic Sports Physical Therapy in New York City to get started on a clear path to recovery. Contact us at 212-317-8303 to schedule an appointment today, or click hereto read our last blog on pelvic floor dysfunction.
