Pelvic floor dysfunction (PFD) is a condition that impacts the pelvic muscles, affecting the bladder, bowel movements, and sexual health. At Driftwood Recovery in Texas, we offer compassionate, whole-person pelvic floor dysfunction treatment for individuals with co-occurring substance use disorder (SUD) and chronic pelvic pain. Our multidisciplinary team uses physical therapy, lifestyle coaching, and referrals to specialists for nonsurgical treatments and advanced interventions when needed.
What Is Pelvic Floor Dysfunction?
The pelvic floor is a complex muscle group that supports the pelvic organs, including the bladder, rectum, and vagina. Pelvic floor disorders occur when these pelvic muscles don’t coordinate properly, leading to symptoms like:
- Urinary incontinence
- Fecal incontinence
- Pelvic pain or rectal pain
- Urinary retention or fecal urgency
- Overactive bladder
- Pelvic organ prolapse
- Chronic constipation or chronic pain
- Interstitial cystitis
- Refractory myofascial pelvic pain
Pelvic floor dysfunction diagnosed early can lead to more effective results. We use a stepwise approach beginning with conservative care and escalating only when necessary.
Causes and Risk Factors
Although the exact cause of PFD varies, contributing factors include:
- Pregnancy and childbirth
- Surgery (e.g., hysterectomy)
- Constipation
- Neurological conditions
- Aging and menopause
- Poor posture or sedentary lifestyle
In people with SUD, chronic constipation and inactivity are common triggers. Preventing flare-ups often requires clients to prevent constipation, take fiber supplements, and make other lifestyle changes.
Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy and Initial Management
Pelvic floor physical therapy is the gold standard for initial management. This includes:
- Kegel exercises to strengthen the puborectalis muscle and anal sphincter
- Bladder training to improve control and reduce urgency
- Electrical stimulation to activate weak or unresponsive muscles
- Warm baths and relaxation techniques for myofascial pelvic pain
- Biofeedback to help patients retrain their pelvic area
According to a systematic review and meta analysis, most patients see significant improvement with regular therapy and nonsurgical treatments.
Advanced Options and Outpatient Procedures
If conservative care isn’t enough, outpatient procedures or surgical treatment may be recommended. Driftwood Recovery may refer clients to urogynecologists for:
- Injection therapy using botulinum toxin
- Sacral neuromodulation for central sensitization
- Vaginal suppositories or rectal medications for local relief
- Anorectal manometry and other diagnostic tools
- Surgical options like pelvic organ prolapse repair or anal canal correction
These options are always discussed in collaboration with a qualified healthcare provider.
Supporting Women With Pelvic Floor Dysfunction
Many women experience pelvic floor challenges, especially after childbirth or during menopause. Driftwood Recovery ensures dignity, privacy, and comprehensive care for all patients. Our team works with specialists to address floor dysfunction and improve quality of life.
Emotional Impact and the Importance of Whole-Person Healing
Living with PFD can cause shame, anxiety, or depression. Clients may withdraw from social situations due to fear of leakage or pain. Therapy and peer support help women and men reframe their relationship with their bodies and embrace healing.
The most important part of treatment is consistency. We help clients implement a long-term plan that restores strength, comfort, and dignity.
Why Choose Driftwood Recovery?
We combine addiction recovery with targeted support for pelvic floor dysfunction. By treating chronic pain, improving physical function, and referring to specialists when needed, we ensure every patient receives the care they deserve.
Pelvic floor dysfunction may affect some individuals with substance use disorder. Driftwood Recovery offers pain management and other services to support client health and safety during rehabilitation. To learn more about our programs and how we address co-occurring health issues during treatment, call our office today at (512) 759-8330.