Pelvic Floor Therapy in Glastonbury, CT: Why Kegels Aren’t Enough
- Dr. David Bray
- Jun 6, 2025
- 3 min read
Updated: Jan 22
Many people have heard of Kegels and assume they are the default solution for pelvic floor problems. Squeeze, release, repeat — simple enough.
The reality is more nuanced. Without understanding the current state of your pelvic floor, performing Kegels may be ineffective or, in some cases, counterproductive.
At Bray Chiropractic & Wellness, LLC, I regularly see patients who have been diligently “doing their Kegels,” yet their symptoms persist or worsen. This article explains why Kegels are not a one-size-fits-all solution — and what a more appropriate, functional approach looks like.
What Is the Pelvic Floor?
The pelvic floor is a coordinated system of muscles, connective tissues, and ligaments at the base of the pelvis. It plays a role in:
Bladder and bowel control
Sexual function
Pelvic organ support
Core stability and pressure management
For normal function, the pelvic floor must be able to contract, relax, lengthen (bulge), and coordinate with breathing and movement. Strength alone is not the goal — control and adaptability are.
Not All Pelvic Floor Dysfunction Is the Same
Pelvic floor dysfunction generally falls into two broad patterns:
Hypotonic (Low Tone)
Reduced strength or endurance
Difficulty maintaining continence or organ support
Hypertonic (High Tone)
Excessive tension or guarding
Pain, difficulty relaxing, or coordination issues
Kegels are designed to address weakness, not excessive tension. When the pelvic floor is already overactive, repetitive contraction can aggravate symptoms such as pain, urinary urgency, or sexual discomfort.
Even in cases of weakness, Kegels alone are often insufficient if breathing mechanics, posture, or coordination are not addressed.
Signs Kegels May Not Be Helping
Common indicators that a different approach is needed include:
Urinary leakage despite consistent Kegel exercises
Pain with intercourse, tampon use, or pelvic exams
Pelvic pressure or heaviness
Constipation or straining
Persistent low back, hip, or pelvic pain
These signs suggest that strength may not be the primary problem.
Why Proper Evaluation Comes First
Before prescribing any pelvic floor exercise, it’s essential to understand how the system is functioning.
As a chiropractor with advanced training in pelvic health, I perform a comprehensive evaluation that may include assessment of:
Pelvic floor tone and coordination
Spinal and pelvic alignment
Breathing mechanics and pressure management
Core engagement patterns
Orthopedic and neurological findings
Lifestyle, ergonomics, and contributing stressors
Internal pelvic floor examination is considered only when clinically appropriate and with informed consent, and is never assumed or required.
Pelvic Floor Therapy in Glastonbury, CT Goes Beyond Kegels
Effective pelvic floor therapy is not about default exercises — it’s about restoring coordination across systems.
Care at Bray Chiropractic & Wellness, LLC may include:
Hands-on soft tissue therapy
External and internal pelvic floor rehabilitation (when indicated)
Breathing and core coordination training
Gradual strengthening when appropriate
Lifestyle, ergonomic, and nutritional considerations
Kegels may be part of care — but only when they match the clinical presentation.
A More Informed Approach to Pelvic Floor Care
If you’ve been doing Kegels and still feel “off,” you’re not failing — you may simply be using the wrong tool for the problem.
When searching for pelvic floor therapy in Glastonbury, CT, it’s important to work with a provider who evaluates function first and prescribes care accordingly.
Bray Chiropractic & Wellness, LLC serves patients in Glastonbury, CT, helping women and men restore pelvic function, reduce pain, and improve quality of life through integrated, evidence-informed care.
📍 Glastonbury, CT
📩 Or send a message to discuss whether pelvic floor therapy may be appropriate for you