pelvic muscle floor

The pelvic floor muscles (or pelvic diaphragm) are a group of skeletal muscles that form a hammock-like structure at the base of the pelvis, spanning from the pubic bone anteriorly to the coccyx posteriorly and attaching to the lateral pelvic walls. This muscular complex includes the levator ani (comprising the pubococcygeus, iliococcygeus, and puborectalis muscles) and the coccygeus muscles, supported by connective tissues and fascia.
Functionally, the pelvic floor serves multiple critical roles:
Support for pelvic organs (bladder, uterus, rectum).
Continence by maintaining closure of urethral and anal sphincters.
Stability for the lumbopelvic-hip complex during movement.
Sexual function and childbirth assistance.
Dysfunction (e.g., weakness, hypertonicity, or injury) can lead to pelvic organ prolapse, urinary/fecal incontinence, or chronic pain syndromes. Rehabilitation often focuses on targeted exercises (e.g., Kegels) to improve muscle tone and coordination.