Definition:
Loss of matrix of bone that provides of proper support for the skeleton, resulting in fractures. Most life-threatening and/or debilitating occur in the spine and hip.

Treatment:
Posture correction exercises to produce correct forces through the vertebrae and hips, gait and balance training to reduce the risk of falling and subsequent fracture, site-specific strength training and possible instruction in use of weighted vests to increase bone density.

Definition:
Chronic pain lasting more than 6 months and identified by 11 out of 18 specific tender points on the body. May or may not be accompanied by severe fatigue, sleep disturbances, irritable bowel syndrome, changes in taste/smell, among many others.

Treatment:
Relaxation techniques, stretching programs, Feldenkrais movment patterns to unlock tightness, pacing mechanisms to address fatigue.

Definition:
The changes in the body associated with pregnancy often result in increased stress on joints and the low back. A natural hormone called Relaxin increases during pregnancy, “relaxing” the ligaments that usually provide for stability of the joints, especially of the pelvis to allow for passage of the baby. After pregnancy, strains produced by lifting and carrying the infant, loading and unloading in/out of the car seat, and improper postures during breastfeeding and carrying are common.

Treatment:
Techniques to reduce strain on joints and tendons, proper body mechanic instruction to reduce back pain and knee strain both during and after pregnancy, stretching and stabilization exercises incorporating yoga and Pilates.

Definition:
Loss of urine or feces due to “stress” (coughing, sneezing, lifting, etc) or “urge” (immediate loss of urine when feel need to void). Usually associated with a weak “pelvic floor muscle” which runs from the pubic bone in front to the tailbone in the back.

Treatment:
Increasing body awareness of the pelvic floor muscles via biofeedback and/or use of electrical stimulation, progression of exercise programs that are usually home based to increase strength of the pelvic floor muscle, instruction in calming the bladder and gaining control of urgency.

Definition:
Sometimes of known origin such as following surgery or trauma to the pelvic area, but at times due to sudden and unknown occurrences. May be localized to the internal organs of the intestines and bladder, or to the area of the vaginal or rectal canals. May also include external areas of pain in the tailbone, or in the area of the labia and/or vulva in women. May also include pain with intercourse.

Treatment:
Visceral/colon massage to address pain and restrictions in internal organs, relaxation techniques, use of dilation and massage techniques to address painful intercourse, biofeedback, gentle stretching.

Definition:
In men restricted to rectal canal exiting the anus. In women, can be one or a combination of the urethra, bladder, uterus, and rectum falling into and even exiting the vaginal canal.

Treatment:
Pelvic floor strengthening program with positioning techniques, instruction in reducing internal pressures to decrease current and future risk.

Definition:
Accumulation of a natural body fluid called “lymph” that can occur in all parts of the body, usually secondary to surgery to remove lymph nodes, excessive scar tissue or other obstruction that blocks the normal flow, or trauma. Can also occur at birth due to missing or under-developed lymph nodes that would normally assist with flow of lymph.

Treatment:
Complete Decongestive Therapy including Manual Lymphatic Drainage, compressive bandaging, circulation exercises, and compression garments.