Did you know that the jaw and neck have connections to your pelvic floor? This connection means that tension in one area can often affect the other. We see this all the time in our practice, which is why, at Sacred Roots, we are not only treating the core and pelvic floor, we are also addressing head and neck tension. This is part of our whole body approach!
Here's a few ways that the Jaw, Neck, and Pelvic Floor Are Connected
Dural Tube: This is a fascial sheath that surrounds your brain, spinal cord, and nerves. It runs from your skull down to your tailbone. Tension anywhere along the dural tube can increase tension down in the pelvis and pelvic floor.
Spinal Muscles and Ligaments: These muscles and ligaments run continuously from the base of your skull down to your pelvis, creating a direct physical connection. Tightness in the neck or jaw can lead to compensatory tension in the pelvic area, and vice versa.
Stress Response System (Fight or Flight): When we are stressed, we often clench our jaw and neck muscles. Clenching your jaw or tightening your neck will often cause clenching in the pelvic floor muscles. This is a response our body does in order to keep us safe, but if our stress is not managed well, it can cause dysfunction in the pelvic floor as well as our jaw and neck.
Fascial Lines: Your body’s connective tissue (fascia) forms continuous lines that link the head, neck, and pelvis. Tightness in one part can create tension elsewhere.
Signs of Jaw/Neck and Pelvic Tension
If you experience any of the following, you might be feeling the effects of this connection:
Jaw clenching or grinding, especially at night
TMJ dysfunction, pain or popping
Chronic neck or shoulder tension
Headaches
Pelvic pain or tightness
Tight hips or low back
Tips for Reducing Tension
Here are a few simple ways to ease tension between these areas:
Gentle hip, spinal, and pelvic floor stretches: Spending even a few minutes each day stretching can make a difference.
Mindful Breathing: Taking slow, deep breaths helps relax your jaw, neck, and pelvic floor at the same time.
Pelvic Floor Therapy: A pelvic health therapist can work with you to design a treatment plan to help you feel balanced and symptom free.
Stress Management: This can look different for everyone. Some examples are: walks outside, reducing screen time, yoga, getting enough sleep, staying hydrated....
How Sacred Roots Can Help
At Sacred Roots, we understand the importance of treating the body as a whole. Our holistic approach to pelvic floor therapy is designed to address the body as a whole, so you can feel your best. If you’re experiencing tension or discomfort, we’re here to help.
Give us a call at 505-506-6943 or contact us here.