In this episode of the Bendy Bodies Podcast, Dr. Linda Bluestein speaks with her personal physical therapist, Dr. Emily Bohan, about the often-overlooked role of pelvic floor health in people with hypermobility, EDS, and related conditions. Emily explains why pelvic floor dysfunction can cause issues like low back pain, hip instability, urinary incontinence, and constipation. She shares her expertise on how to strengthen and relax the pelvic floor safely, emphasizing why Kegels aren't always the answer. Packed with practical tips, including "stop power peeing" and incremental exercise strategies, this episode provides actionable insights to help anyone dealing with pelvic or musculoskeletal pain.

Takeaways:

Pelvic Floor Dysfunction Affects More Than You Think: Issues like low back pain, hip pain, constipation, and urinary incontinence can often be traced to pelvic floor tension or weakness.

Kegels Aren’t Always the Solution: Many people have overly tight pelvic floor muscles, making relaxation and proper breathing more effective than strengthening exercises like Kegels.

Power Peeing is a No-No: Pushing or straining during urination can harm the pelvic floor over time, increasing the risk of prolapse and dysfunction.

Incremental Progress Prevents Flares: For hypermobile individuals, small, controlled increases in movement and load are key to building strength without worsening pain.

Pelvic Floor Therapy Is for Everyone: Pelvic floor physical therapy benefits people of all genders and ages, from postpartum women to male athletes experiencing pelvic pain.

Connect with YOUR Hypermobility Specialist, Dr. Linda Bluestein, MD at https://www.hypermobilitymd.com/.

Thank YOU so much for tuning in. We hope you found this episode informative, inspiring, useful, validating, and enjoyable. Join us on the next episode for YOUR time to level up your knowledge about hypermobility disorders and the people who have them.

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