PODCASTS

Your Lifestyle Your Medicine

Podcast Episode 59: Why Pelvic Floor Therapy Fails Many Women and What Works

Most people hear “do more Kegels” and brace for disappointment. We go deeper, showing how only a fraction of bladder control is voluntary and why the autonomic nervous system quietly drives continence, urgency and pelvic pain. With Dr. Nigel Brayer, a chiropractor and rehab specialist who built the Ironclad System after his wife’s postpartum struggle, we unpack a kinder, smarter roadmap that shifts focus from isolated muscles to full-body regulation.

We start with the overlooked 70%: autonomic control. You’ll learn a simple vagus-nerve technique using the triangular fossa of the ear, plus breathing cues that lift the diaphragm and reduce downward pressure on the bladder. We separate “stress” into three clear lanes—physical structure and fascia, nutritional-chemical-hormonal inputs, and mental-emotional load—so you can pick a realistic starting point. From there, we dig into everyday triggers hiding in plain sight: caffeine’s stimulatory hit, carbonation’s lining irritation and tannins in tea and red wine that can sensitize tissue. A protein-and-healthy-fat-forward plate with low simple carbs supports tissue repair and steadier nerves without the inflammatory sugar swings.

Then we bring it all together with practical training. The “squaggle” combines a supported wide squat, a gentle pelvic contraction and a slow exhale to coordinate breath, fascia and pelvic floor reflexes. This isn’t gym heroics; it’s teaching your nervous system a calmer default. We also explore posture and fascial lines that link rib cage, diaphragm and pelvis, and why tracking your symptoms weekly reveals progress that’s easy to miss day to day. Whether you’re dealing with leaks after childbirth, urge incontinence that seems “in your head,” or persistent pelvic discomfort, this conversation offers evidence-informed steps that respect how the body really works.

If this resonated, follow the show, share it with someone who needs hope, and leave a review telling us which change you’re trying first. Your lifestyle is your medicine—let’s make it work for you.

Watch the full podcast episode video here  or audio episode.

Ed Paget

Ed Paget is an osteopath, writer, presenter, and creator of both the Scoliosis Correction Protocol and the Back Pain Correction Protocol.

Over the last 15 years working with private clients he has developed a system of unique assessments and treatments that aim to unravel the complex web of compensations that we all have to reveal the underlying cause of illness or injury. This unique approach hasn’t gone unnoticed and Ed was recruited to work with the Canadian National Speed Skating team and was invited to the Sochi Olympics as part of team Canada’s medical contingent. He is currently a consultant to the Calgary Sport Institute and has been asked to share his Fascia stretching protocol or F.A.S.T class with both the National Alpine ski team and Biathlon team.

Learn More

Over the last 10 years Ed has been building a YouTube library to help people manage their own pain or movement limitations and increase performance through exercise. He regularly adds videos so be sure to subscribe and visit regularly