#49 - Barbell Training, Powerlifting & Prolapse: Does it just affect women? Can you train? Do you need surgery?

#49 - Barbell Training, Powerlifting & Prolapse: Does it just affect women? Can you train? Do you need surgery?

Author: Dr. Rori Alter, PT, SSC, PRSCC June 10, 2023 Duration: 1:08:57

Pelvic organ prolapse is a dysfunction of the human body that is experienced by men and women. Yes, you read that right, men too. So it's important to understand the symptoms, causes, and treatment options so you're not left wondering: "Can I powerlift with a prolapse?" or "Do I need surgery if I have a prolapse?"

 

Vaginal and rectal prolapse are sensitive topics for most people. In fact, this often leads people to suffer in silence, lose enjoyment for life, and even stop barbell training or competing in powerlifting. However, there are ways to non-surgically address prolapse and continue to barbell train. 

 

When belts are worn correctly, the Valsalva Maneuver is executed appropriately, and training volume, intensity, and technique are monitored and adjusted systematically, you can train without experiencing or worsening prolapse.  

 

In this episode of the PRS Podcast Dr. Breanne Maruca, PT, PRSCC, CLT, WCS and Dr. Rori Alter, PT, PRSCC, SSC bring awareness to pelvic organ prolapse by discussing:

  1. Types of prolapse that men and women experience

  2. Symptoms of vaginal and rectal prolapse

  3. Their personal experiences with both

  4. A docked boat analogy for the pelvic floor muscles, organs, and ligaments

  5. Various treatment options for pelvic organ prolapse

    1. Pessary

    2. Surgery

    3. Medication

 

Resources Mentioned in this Episode:

  1. #48 - Functional Anatomy of the Core & Pelvic Floor in Barbell Training with Dr. Breanne Maruca, PT, PRSCC, CLT, WCS

  2. #38 - The Valsalva Maneuver Explained | How to Breathe While Lifting

  3. #8 - Peeing & Powerlifting - The Truth About Powerlifting Specific Urinary Incontinence Causes & Management

 

Need help with your pelvic floor issue? Book a free consultation with PRS Clinical Coach Dr. Breanne HERE!

 

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Get in touch with the show!

Web: https://www.progressiverehabandstrength.com

Email: podcast@progressiverehabandstrength.com

Rori IG: @rorimegan_prs

Alyssa IG: @alyssahope_prs

Bre IG: @breannejulia_prs

 


Hosted by Dr. Rori Alter and Dr. Alyssa Haveson, Progressive Rehab & Strength is a conversation for those who take lifting seriously, whether for sport or for life. Both hosts are practicing physical therapists and certified strength coaches with deep roots in powerlifting, giving them a unique, dual-perspective on the body under load. This podcast digs into the nuanced intersection of rehabilitation and performance, moving beyond generic advice. You’ll hear practical discussions on programming for longevity, managing training around injuries, and navigating the technical demands of the barbell lifts. The aim is to strip away confusion and provide actionable insights that help athletes and coaches build resilient, sustainable careers-both in the gym and in their professional practices. It’s a resource for critical thinkers who want their approach to strength to be informed by both clinical expertise and hard-earned experience on the platform. Tune in for a blend of science, real-world application, and straight talk from two professionals who live in this space every day.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 100

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