Pelvic Floor Therapy

HOW CAN A PHYSICAL THERAPIST HELP?

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Areas treated with PFPT:

  • Urinary and bowel incontinence

  • Pelvic Pain

  • Constipation

  • Dyspareunia (pain with intercourse)

  • Rectocele

  • Cystocele

  • Uterine Prolapse

  • Following abdominal surgeries (hysterectomy, bladder lift, prostate, etc.)

  • Low back pain with pregnancy

Urinary Incontinence:

  • Gain control over symptoms

  • Reduce need for pads, special undergarments, incontinence medications, and possible surgery

  • Change behaviors that make symptoms worse

  • Improve muscle strength

  • Provide information about foods and drinks that irritate bladder

  • Ways to decrease urge and frequency

According to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, more than 13 million US citizens have incontinence.

Pelvic Pain:

  • Reduce muscle tightness

  • Improve how you use your muscles (which in turn helps reduce your pain and increase your ability to perform your roles in the home, in the community, and at work)

  • Relaxation techniques

  • Teach self-techniques that are effective

Common Myths

Pelvic PTs do not treat men.

False. Although the majority of the pelvic floor therapy patient population is female, men may also be treated for common diagnoses such as pelvic pain, bowel dysfunction, sexual related pain, urinary dysfunction and tailbone pain.

If a person has tried “Kegel exercises” and they did not work, Pelvic PT won’t be able to help them.

False! Pelvic floor physical therapy involves more than simply strengthening a muscle group. It involves restoring function - improving muscular support around the pelvis, improving behavioral/dietary habits, and retraining body movements to allow for optimal organ and structural function.

FIRST VISIT: WHAT TO EXPECT

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  • Discussion of symptoms, Q&A of urine, bowel, sexual function, diet, and exercise

  • Review of pelvic floor anatomy and causes for symptoms

  • Examination of low back, hips, core, and breathing

  • Evaluation of pelvic floor muscles

  • Both external and internal exams are performed for further diagnosis and assistance with treatment. You and your PT will decide which option is best

  • Creation of individualized treatment plan and exercise program

Think about where you will be in 30 days – pain free, happier, healthier and stronger. Don’t be the victim of procrastination yet again, click below to schedule your appointment today.