Kegel exercises were originally developed as a method of controlling incontinence in women following childbirth.
The principle behind Kegel exercises is to strengthen the muscles of the pelvic floor thereby improving the
urethra and/or rectal sphincter function. The success of Kegel exercises depends on proper technique and
adherence to a regular resistance exercise program. Some people have difficulty identifying and isolating
the muscles of the pelvic floor, especially if they are already weak. Care must be taken to learn to contract
the correct muscles. Typically, most people contract the abdominal, buttock, or thigh muscles, while not even
working the pelvic floor muscles.
A kegel is the name of a pelvic floor exercise, named after Dr. Kegel (an obstetrician) who discovered the
exercise. These muscles are attached to the pelvic bone and act like a hammock, holding in your pelvic organs.
Kegel exercises help strengthen the pelvic floor muscles, which in turn improves support for the bladder and the
bladder sphincter muscles. Kegel exercise has been shown to be helpful for both men and women.
Studies have shown that up to 50% of people who try to perform Kegel exercises on their own do the exercise
incorrectly. In fact, 25% do the exercises so incorrectly that they make their problem worse. At Everybody
Physical Therapy we can make sure you are performing the exercises correctly, and we also offer biofeedback,
electrical stimulation and patient education that can help you strengthen these muscles.
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