How Qi Gong and Novel Movement Can Help with Pelvic Pain
By Lauren Rudko PT, MSc. PT
Pelvic pain is a common condition that can significantly impact a person's quality of life. While traditional treatments such as medication and exercise can be effective, there is growing interest in the potential benefits of complementary therapies within pelvic health physiotherapy, such as Qi Gong and other forms of novel movement. This blog post will explore how these therapies may help with pelvic pain.
Qi Gong
Qi gong is a traditional Chinese practice that involves breathing techniques, meditation, and gentle movements. It is based on the concept of qi, or life force energy, and is thought to promote balance and harmony in the body. Qi Gong effectively reduces pain and improves the quality of life in people with chronic pain conditions such as fibromyalgia and chronic low back pain. Some of how Qi Gong may help with pelvic pain include:
Reducing muscle tension: Qi Gong can help relax muscles and reduce tension in the pelvic floor, contributing to pelvic pain.
Improving circulation: Qi Gong movements can improve blood flow to the pelvic region, which can help to reduce inflammation and promote healing.
Promoting relaxation: Qi Gong involves deep breathing and meditation, which can help reduce stress and promote relaxation, reducing pain perception.
Novel Movement
Novel movement is a term used to describe movements that are new or unfamiliar to the body. This can include activities such as dance, yoga, and other forms of movement that challenge the body in new ways and for which the body does not anticipate pain during the movement. The novel movement effectively reduces pain and improves the quality of life in people with chronic pain conditions. Some of how novel movement may help with pelvic pain include:
Reducing muscle tension: Novel movements can help release tension in the pelvic floor muscles, contributing to pelvic pain.
Improving flexibility: Novel movements can enhance flexibility and range of motion in the pelvic region, which can help to reduce pain and improve function.
Promoting body awareness: Novel movements can help to increase body awareness and improve posture, which can help to reduce pain and prevent future injuries.
In addition to these specific benefits, both Qi Gong and other forms of novel movement can promote well-being and relaxation, positively impacting overall health and quality of life.
Complementary therapies such as Qi Gong and other forms of novel movement may offer a promising approach to managing pelvic pain. These therapies can help reduce muscle tension, improve circulation and flexibility, promote relaxation, and increase body awareness, all of which can reduce pain and improve quality of life. If you are experiencing pelvic pain, pelvic health physiotherapy can help, especially as it looks through a bio-psycho-social lens and can incorporate Qi Gong and other forms of novel movement into your treatment plan.