Connection between the Low Back and the Pelvic Floor

The low back can have indirect effects on the pelvic floor due to the anatomical and functional connections between these areas. The low back (lumbar region) and pelvic floor are part of the same musculoskeletal and neuromuscular system, and alterations in one region can influence the other. 

Here’s why Trigger Point Needling (Dry Needling or Ashi Point Needling) of the back impacts the Pelvic Floor:

• Muscular Connections:

• The muscles of the low back, including the erector spinae and multifidus muscles, are interconnected with the pelvic floor muscles through the lumbopelvic junction. Trigger point needling in the low back can influence muscle tone and tension in this region, potentially affecting the pelvic floor.

• Innervation and Nervous System:

• The nerves that innervate the low back and pelvic floor are interconnected. Dry needling may stimulate the nervous system and influence neural pathways, potentially leading to changes in muscle activity and function in both regions.

• Myofascial Connections:

• The myofascial tissue includes the muscles and the fascia (which is the connective tissue in and around the muscles). Myofascial connections exist between the muscles and fascia of the low back and those of the pelvic floor. Needling can impact the fascial network, potentially influencing the tension and mobility of the pelvic floor.

• Postural and Movement Patterns:

• Dysfunction or pain in the low back can alter posture and movement patterns, affecting the coordination of muscles in the pelvic floor. Trigger point needling in the low back may contribute to improved posture and movement, indirectly benefiting pelvic floor function.

• Reflexive Responses:

• Dry needling can elicit reflexive responses in the nervous system. Stimulation of specific points in the low back may trigger responses that affect the pelvic floor, such as changes in muscle tone or relaxation.

• Shared Functional Roles:

• Both the low back and the pelvic floor play roles in supporting the spine, maintaining stability, and contributing to overall movement and function. Changes in the function of one area can impact the biomechanics of the other.

• Pain Modulation:

• Pain in the low back can be associated with pelvic floor dysfunction, and addressing pain through dry needling may contribute to improvements in pelvic floor symptoms. Pain modulation mechanisms, such as the release of endorphins, can have systemic effects.

Bottom Line: EVERYTHING IS CONNECTED! It's important to note that while there is a potential for indirect effects on the pelvic floor through trigger point needling in the low back, specific outcomes can vary among individuals. This is why your acupuncturist individualizes the approach for you and tailors your sessions to what’s happening biomechanically and energetically in your body.

If you are looking to book a session tailored to you and your pelvic care needs CLICK HERE!