A Holistic Approach To Pelvic Floor Health w/ Petra Fisher
Dec 12, 2023
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Petra Fisher, a distinguished expert in holistic health and wellness, explores the crucial realm of pelvic floor health and its influence on overall well-being. She emphasizes the interconnectedness of the body and highlights the importance of foot health for pelvic floor issues and stability. The podcast also delves into the impact of breathing mechanics, posture, and rib mobility on optimal pelvic floor function. The guests stress the significance of 360 breathing and discuss the need for cultural change in how we view and discuss movement and pelvic floor health.
The alignment and mechanics of our feet can impact the health and function of our pelvic floors.
Improving hip extension and core stability can positively affect both our feet and our pelvic floor.
Optimal breathing and rib mobility are crucial for pelvic floor health and should be addressed in a holistic approach.
Deep dives
The Connection Between Foot and Pelvic Floor Problems
Foot and pelvic floor issues are prevalent in our modern population. Approximately 30-40% of people experience serious foot problems as they age, and one in three people experience pelvic floor issues. Both our feet and our pelvic floors are ground zero areas for movement-related issues. The pelvic floor supports our torso and helps stabilize our bodies as we move. When our feet are not functioning properly, it can impact the health and function of our pelvic floors.
Foot Mechanics and Pelvic Floor Dysfunction
Proper foot mechanics, including pronation and supination, are crucial for optimal pelvic floor function. Feet that are stuck in pronation or supination can lead to pelvic floor issues. The alignment of our feet, such as pushing our pelvis forward while standing, affects the load on our forefoot and tightens our pelvic floor muscles. Addressing foot problems, such as bunions and limited big toe extension, can help improve pelvic floor function.
The Importance of Hip Extension and Core Stability
Hip extension and core stability play a vital role in pelvic floor health. Limited hip extension and compromised gluteal function can impact pelvic floor lengthening and strength. By improving hip extension capacity and core stability through exercises and movement, we can positively affect both our feet and our pelvic floor.
The importance of core stability for pelvic floor health
Maintaining core stability is crucial for pelvic floor health as it prevents excessive movement and instability in the body. A stable core helps to avoid issues such as low back pain, hip pain, SI joint pain, and diastasis recti. Core stability is not just about strength or the appearance of a six-pack; it's about maintaining integrity in the body and preventing compensatory movements in other areas. The pelvic floor and core stability also have far-reaching effects, potentially impacting other areas of the body like the shoulders and even the jaw.
The role of breathing and rib mobility in pelvic floor health
Breathing and rib mobility play a critical role in pelvic floor health. Many people have a common postural variation known as a rib thrust or a lifted up rib cage, which can negatively affect breathing mechanics and pelvic floor function. Optimal breathing involves 360-degree rib expansion and movement, allowing for proper pressure changes without putting excessive strain on the pelvic floor. Traditional kegel exercises that focus solely on pelvic floor contractions may not address the underlying issues. A holistic approach to pelvic floor health should include addressing rib mobility, spinal mobility, and overall movement patterns.
In this week's episode of the 'Restore To Explore' Podcast, we're excited to introduce our guest, Petra Fisher, a distinguished expert in holistic health and wellness. Petra brings to the table a wealth of knowledge, with a background in physiotherapy and a deep understanding of the intricate connections within our bodies. Today, Petra delves into the crucial realm of pelvic floor health and how it influences our overall well-being. She passionately advocates for a holistic approach to improving pelvic floor health, emphasizing that everything in our body is interconnected. Petra explores how these often-overlooked muscles much like the muscles in our feet are the foundation of core strength and play a pivotal role in various aspects of our health. This was an amazing conversation that uncovered the profound connection between our pelvic floor muscles and overall vitality, showcasing the importance of this holistic perspective on wellness.