03/02/2026
Overactive Pelvic Floor
When people think of pelvic floor problems, weakness often comes to mind, but the opposite can also occur. An overactive pelvic floor happens when the muscles are too tight and unable to relax properly. This can create pain, tension and difficulty with normal bladder, bowel or sexual function.
Common causes include chronic stress, poor posture, high-impact exercise, pregnancy, childbirth, or even long-term pelvic pain conditions. Symptoms may include pelvic or lower back pain, pain during in*******se, difficulty emptying the bladder or bowels, urgency, frequency or feelings of incomplete emptying. Unlike a weak pelvic floor, strengthening alone won’t resolve the issue – in fact, it may make symptoms worse if relaxation is not addressed first.
Physiotherapy plays a vital role in treating overactive pelvic floor muscles. Specially trained physiotherapists use techniques such as pelvic floor down-training, relaxation strategies, breathing exercises, gentle stretches and biofeedback to restore normal function. Education on posture, movement and lifestyle factors also helps reduce ongoing irritation and improve long-term comfort.
If you are experiencing pelvic pain, bladder or bowel difficulties, or think your pelvic floor may be overactive, book an appointment with Brisbane Physiotherapy & Podiatry today.
- Brisbane Physiotherapy & Podiatry
