Condition · Pelvis
Interstitial Cystitis
How Myofascial Release addresses it, and what to expect.
Interstitial cystitis (IC), also known as painful bladder syndrome (PBS), is a chronic condition characterized by pain and discomfort in the bladder and surrounding pelvic region. It is considered a type of bladder pain syndrome. Interstitial cystitis can significantly impact a person’s quality of life and may be associated with urinary urgency, frequency, and pelvic pain. The exact cause of interstitial cystitis is not well understood, and it is likely to involve a combination of factors, including abnormalities in the protective lining of the bladder, inflammation, and dysfunction of the pelvic nerves.
Why fascia is involved
The bladder sits inside a web of pelvic fascia.
The bladder is suspended in the pelvis by ligaments and fascia and rests on the pelvic floor. When that connective tissue tightens, from inflammation, surgery, childbirth, injury or chronic stress, it can compress the bladder, irritate the nerves that serve it, and drive the urgency, frequency and pain that define interstitial cystitis. Many people with IC also have a pelvic floor that is chronically braced.
Myofascial Release approaches IC through the tissue around the bladder rather than the bladder alone: the pelvic floor, lower abdomen, hips, tailbone and lower back. Gentle sustained pressure allows those restrictions to soften, easing pressure on the bladder and calming the nerves. It is typically used alongside medical care, and many people find their flare-ups become less frequent.
MFR Resource
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