Sibling Rivalry: Low Back Pain and Pelvic Floor Dysfunction

Overview

Low back pain (LBP) and pelvic floor dysfunction (PFD) frequently coexist, yet they are often assessed and treated as separate clinical entities. In this concise and thought-provoking 25-minute Embodia course, renowned physiotherapist Carolyn Vandyken explores the complex interplay between these conditions, describing their relationship as “sibling rivalry.”

Drawing on more than 30 years of clinical and research experience, Carolyn presents compelling evidence demonstrating the high prevalence of pelvic floor dysfunction among individuals presenting with low back pain. She challenges traditional biomechanical approaches and highlights the importance of adopting an integrated biopsychosocial framework that considers central sensitization, psychological influences, and lifestyle factors.

Through research insights, clinical reasoning, and case-based examples, this course helps clinicians better recognize overlapping symptom presentations and refine assessment and treatment strategies for improved patient outcomes.

Learning Objectives

By the end of this course, participants will be able to:

1. Recognize the clinical relationship between low back pain and pelvic floor dysfunction

2. Identify the prevalence and types of pelvic floor dysfunction commonly seen in patients with LBP

3. Understand the role of pelvic floor overactivity and its clinical implications

4. Describe how central sensitization contributes to persistent pain and dysfunction

5. Integrate screening strategies for pelvic floor dysfunction into low back pain assessments

6. Apply biopsychosocial principles to guide treatment planning

7. Recognize the role of mechanical diagnosis and directional preference in symptom management

8. Appreciate the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration in complex pain presentations

Audience

This course is designed for healthcare professionals involved in the assessment and management of musculoskeletal and pelvic health conditions, including:

• Physiotherapists / Physical Therapists

• Pelvic Health Therapists

• Chiropractors

• Osteopaths

• Rehabilitation Professionals

• Healthcare providers managing persistent pain and complex patient presentations

Why This Course Matters

Low back pain remains one of the most common and costly musculoskeletal conditions worldwide. Emerging evidence demonstrates that pelvic floor dysfunction is highly prevalent among individuals presenting with LBP, yet it is frequently overlooked in routine assessment and treatment.

This course challenges clinicians to move beyond isolated biomechanical models and adopt a more comprehensive, patient-centered approach. Understanding how pelvic floor overactivity, central nervous system sensitization, and psychological factors interact can help clinicians avoid ineffective or potentially aggravating interventions, such as inappropriate strengthening strategies.

By integrating musculoskeletal and pelvic health perspectives, clinicians can enhance clinical reasoning, improve patient outcomes, and better address complex, persistent pain presentations.