#MarchIntoYellow Endometriosis Awareness
March is National Endometriosis Awareness Month. It’s marked by wearing yellow, which is coincidentally the color of the flower of the month: the daffodil. Campaigns like the #yellowchallenge or #marchintoyellow help to increase awareness.
Globally, endometriosis affects 176 million women.
What is endometriosis?
It’s a condition where uterine tissue develop out the uterus, generally within the pelvic cavity. This collection of tissue growth is called an endometriosis lesion. They are the most common cause of pelvic pain.
Many women also report extreme menstrual pain and pain with sex (dyspareunia). Lesions can significantly impact a persons life: social, work and affects relationships with partners. 30-40% of women who have endometriosis also have issues with fertility.
What can pelvic floor physical therapy do?
One of the greatest assists a pelvic floor physical therapy specialist has is their ability to help manage endometrial lesions through manual therapy. Manual therapy can assist with reducing tightness within the pelvis. It also can aid in releasing scar tissue and adhesions, which is common with endometriosis. Sometimes these lesions distort in internal structure/makeup of the pelvic organs.
A pelvic floor physical therapist specialist can also educate you on diaphragmatic breathing, relaxation techniques, alignment/posture, improving bowel and bladder function, stretching and strengthening exercises.
Our team of physical therapists at Body Harmony are trained to take a comprehensive approach to helping you manage endometriosis as well as provide tips on self care including guidance with dietary changes, sitz baths/application of heat and poses/stretches to aid in relaxation of the pelvic floor. Call us at 212-233-9494 to schedule an appointment.
References:
About Endometriosis http://endometriosis.org/endometriosis/
Written by: Keely Faridi, PT
