Abdomino-Phrenic Dyssynergia

While APD is defined as functional incoordination of the diaphragm and the abdominal wall, APD is often seen in conjunction with pelvic floor muscle dyssynergia. This type of dyssynergia happens when the pelvic floor muscles (the sling of muscles involved with bladder, bowel, and sexual function) are not coordinating properly. They too may be contracting when they should be relaxing and the patient may have difficulty going to the bathroom and may experience constipation and/or abdominal and pelvic pain. Our pelvic floor physical therapists are able to assess and treat any possible pelvic floor
dysfunction during your course of treatment.

Excessive abdominal distension and chronic bloating with or without constipation can also be caused by non-musculoskeletal issues. If you choose to seek physical therapy services before seeing an MD or specialist, your physical therapist can help refer you to the appropriate provider at your initial visit. We will collaborate with the appropriate medical providers to determine a systemic cause of pain. Our Doctors of Physical Therapy are also available for remote consultations to assist on your journey to find relief!
​
APD/Pelvic Floor physical therapy works just like going to physical therapy for your back injury! Your physical therapist will perform a thorough assessment to see if there are any musculoskeletal dysfunction and or lack of neuromuscular control of the abdominals, pelvic floor, and back muscles. They will then provide a personalized treatment plan to
help decrease your pain and abdominal distension!