EmpowerHeal Physical Therapy
Pelvic Floor Therapy and EDS physical therapy serving Bethesda and Washington DC surrounding metropolitan areas
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Pelvic Floor Therapy and EDS physical therapy serving Bethesda and Washington DC surrounding metropolitan areas
In the pelvic region, the ligaments and connective tissue support organs such as the uterus, bladder, and bowel. In EDS, these tissues can be overly stretchy or weak, causing:
Pelvic organ prolapse or instability
Increased strain and micro-injuries in pelvic ligaments and joints
Loose connective tissue may lead to nerve irritation or compression in the pelvis, causing pain that can be sharp, burning, or aching.
Muscles may overcompensate for weak connective tissue, leading to muscle fatigue, spasms, or trigger points that contribute to chronic pelvic pain
The pelvic organs (bladder, bowel, and reproductive organs) rely on smooth communication with the ANS to function correctly.When dysautonomia disrupts these signals, it can cause
Bladder Issues
Feeling the urgent need to urinate frequently
Trouble fully emptying the bladder
Unexpected leakage or incontinence
Bowel Problems
Constipation or difficulty with bowel movements
Occasional loss of control (fecal incontinence)
Cramping, bloating, or irritable bowel symptoms
Sexual Dysfunction
Difficulties with arousal or orgasm
Pain during intercourse
The connective tissue abnormalities in EDS may promote abnormal healing and inflammation, which could encourage the development or worsening of endometriosis lesions.
Weak connective tissue in the pelvic floor and ligaments can cause pelvic organ prolapse or increased organ mobility. This instability may exacerbate symptoms of endometriosis or make the pelvic environment more conducive to endometriosis development.
People with EDS often have heightened pain sensitivity due to nerve involvement or central sensitization, which can intensify the pain experienced with endometriosis.
Mast cells are found throughout the body, including in the pelvic organs such as the bladder, uterus, bowel, and pelvic nerves. When mast cells in these areas become overactive, they can cause:
Chronic inflammation in pelvic tissues
Irritation of nerves, leading to pain signals being amplified
Smooth muscle spasms in organs like the bladder or bowel
Tissue swelling and increased sensitivity
This inflammation and nerve sensitization can lead to chronic pelvic pain, often seen in conditions like interstitial cystitis/bladder pain syndrome, irritable bowel syndrome, and vulvodynia
We specialize in treatment and management of people with hypermobility spectrum disorders (EDS/hEDS).