Improve Polycystic Ovarian Symptoms Without Drugs

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a hormonal disorder that may affect as many as 10% of women of childbearing age.¹

Women with PCOS can experience irregular menstrual cycles, changes in physical appearance (acne, weight gain, excessive hair growth), heart problems, increased risk for diabetes, and infertility.

As the name (polycystic) implies, many cysts typically develop in the ovaries of a woman with this disorder. These cysts or follicles (fluid filled sacs) contain eggs; but in women with PCOS, the ovary does not produce enough hormones for egg maturation. Thus, the follicles or cysts remain and build up in the ovaries, preventing ovulation. Further, with PCOS, the ovaries tend to produce excess levels of androgens (male hormones), which can also negatively impact ovulation and fertility.

Our Investigations Into Treating PCOS

Successful reproductive activity and hormone levels depend on a medically recognized communication loop between the ovaries (in the pelvis) and the pituitary and hypothalamus glands (deep inside the head.) Housed within a well-protected cavity of the sphenoid bone in the center of the skull, the pituitary gland is considered the "master gland" of female reproduction, thus it is intimately involved in hormone production and regulation. While physicians recognize that a communication loop occurs among the pituitary, hypothalamus, and the ovaries, the exact mechanism of that intricate communication remains a mystery. This interplay among glands, called the hypothalamic-pituitary-ovarian axis, is largely responsible for whether or not a woman’s eggs can reach maturity, during the process of reproduction.

As physical therapists, we are required to look at the physical mechanisms that confront us, and the findings we can measure accurately in our patients. We initially thought that we could not affect hormone levels; we assumed that the communication was purely hormonal, and had nothing to do with the biomechanics of bodily structures. We assumed that the communication was far outside our scope of expertise – the treatment of adhesions.

However, we have come to question that assumption as more and more women we treat with hormonal imbalances (high FSH, premature ovarian failure, and PCOS) exhibit positive – sometimes remarkable hormonal changes, or become pregnant and deliver healthy full-term babies.

We believe our success with women with hormonal disorders is due in large part to our work at the major attachments of the dura. The dura is a fascial sweater that surrounds the spinal cord, from the bottom of the tailbone at the coccyx to attachments at the top of the neck, and the base of the skull. From there, it enters the skull through a silver-dollar sized hole (foramen magnum) and spreads out to surround the brain - and all the tissues within it. Naturally, this includes the sphenoid bone, which houses the pituitary-hypothalamus complex. Sheaths of the dura also surround and infuse with the pituitary itself.

During the course of therapy, we address the dura and all of its attachments, from head to tailbone. After all, this is literally the central nervous system, responsible for a myriad of complex activities and commands. Any adhesive restriction within that system can create profound effects in various areas of the body.

While our research in the area of treating hormonal conditions is in its infancy, we are pleased that the initial results are overwhelmingly positive. Thus, we now accept women with diagnoses that include PCOS, premature ovarian failure, amenorrhea (no menstrual cycle), and high FSH levels and we will continue to research the results of our therapy in these areas.

If you are interested in therapy for PCOS, we encourage you to apply and consult with one of our Directors, to determine if this therapy may be right for you. There is no charge for consulting with us, once you have completed and returned your questionnaire.