The Benefits of Pelvic Floor Therapy for Pubic Symphysis Dysfunction

Pelvic floor therapy exercises for pubic symphysis dysfunction – Root To Rise Physical Therapy & Pelvic Health.

Pubic Symphysis Dysfunction (PSD) is often experienced as pain at the front of the pelvis is a condition commonly associated with pregnancy, though it can affect anyone. While it’s especially frequent during or after pregnancy due to hormonal and postural changes, it can also impact athletes or individuals who experience pelvic strain from repetitive movement or imbalance.

At Root To Rise Physical Therapy & Pelvic Health in Scarborough, Maine, we specialize in helping people move through pregnancy, postpartum, and daily life with more ease. If you’re struggling with pelvic pain, you don’t have to live with it and pelvic floor therapy can help restore stability, reduce pain, and help you move comfortably again.

Common Symptoms of Pubic Symphysis Dysfunction

If you’re experiencing any of the following symptoms, you may benefit from a pelvic floor evaluation:

• Sharp, sudden pain at the front of the pelvis (“lightning crotch”)

• Clicking, grinding, or popping sensations near the pubic bone

• Pain with walking, running, standing on one leg, or rolling in bed

• Discomfort getting out of the car, climbing stairs, or turning over in bed

These symptoms often worsen with weight-bearing movements or activities that create asymmetrical loading across the pelvis.

Understanding Pubic Symphysis Dysfunction

The pubic symphysis is a small joint at the front of the pelvis where the left and right pubic bones meet. It’s supported by ligaments and cartilage that allow for slight movement.

During pregnancy, hormonal changes (especially the release of relaxin) soften these ligaments, which can lead to instability, inflammation, and pain.

Outside of pregnancy, PSD can develop from:

• Repetitive strain (from running, dancing, or certain sports)

• Pelvic trauma or injury

• Muscle imbalances in the hips, legs, or core

• Poor movement mechanics or postural adaptations

When the pelvis isn’t well-supported, the pubic symphysis absorbs extra stress, which can lead to irritation and discomfort and especially during daily activities.

How Pelvic Floor Therapy Helps with PSD

At Root To Rise, our approach to pelvic floor physical therapy for pubic symphysis dysfunction includes individualized care to restore balance and reduce pain.

1. Stabilizing the Pelvis

Pelvic floor therapy strengthens the muscles that support your pelvis including the deep core, hips, and pelvic floor. By improving stability, we reduce stress on the pubic symphysis and enhance overall alignment.

2. Reducing Pain and Tension

Manual therapy techniques help release tight or overactive muscles that may be contributing to discomfort. Reducing muscle tension allows for better movement and faster relief.

3. Improving Muscle Balance

Many people with PSD have imbalances between the inner thighs, glutes, and deep core muscles. Your therapist will identify these patterns and guide you through targeted exercises to restore balance and coordination.

4. Teaching Pain-Free Movement Patterns

You’ll learn how to move more efficiently, whether it’s rolling out of bed, lifting your baby, or returning to running. Our therapists help you find comfortable, confident movement strategies for everyday life and exercise.

What to Expect from a Pelvic Floor Therapy Session

Your session at our Scarborough, Saco or Bath clinic may include:

• A thorough assessment of your pelvic alignment, strength, and mobility

• Internal and/or external evaluation of pelvic floor muscles as appropriate

• Gentle manual therapy for soft tissue restrictions and joint alignment

• Personalized strengthening and stabilization exercises

• Education on posture, breath mechanics, and daily movement habits

Every treatment plan is customized to your body, your lifestyle, and your goals—so you can get back to what you love, comfortably and safely.

Find Relief and Restore Confidence in Your Body

Living with pubic symphysis dysfunction can make simple daily tasks (like walking, lifting, or caring for your baby) feel painful and frustrating. But healing is possible.

At Root To Rise Physical Therapy & Pelvic Health, our team specializes in pelvic floor therapy for pregnancy and postpartum recovery as well as pelvic pain treatment for athletes and active adults.

Whether you’re in Scarborough, Saco, or Bath, Maine, we’re here to help you stabilize your pelvis, reduce pain, and restore confidence in your movement.

✅ Ready to start feeling better?
Book a pelvic floor evaluation today at Root To Rise Physical Therapy & Pelvic Health or contact us to learn more about how pelvic floor therapy can help you find relief from pubic symphysis pain.

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