Pelvic floor dysfunction is an under-treated and under-diagnosed problem. It affects many women and can cause a significant impact on a person’s physical function and quality of life. Pelvic health physical therapy is a specialized area of therapy that requires additional training and knowledge and focuses on reducing the symptoms of pelvic floor dysfunction. Our pelvic health physical therapists have received extensive training, beyond what is offered in physical therapy graduate school, and specialize in the muscles and function of the pelvic floor and the surrounding structures.
What is the Pelvic Floor?
The pelvic floor is made up of a number of muscles and ligaments that create a sling from the pubic bone to the tailbone. When these muscles aren’t working correctly, they can cause pain and a variety of other issues. The pelvic floor muscles assist in several functions including:
- Bowel and bladder control
- Sexual appreciation
- Support of the pelvic organs
- Stabilization of the low back and hips
Pelvic Health Conditions We Treat
- Pelvic or abdominal pain
- Urinary leakage, frequency or urgency (stress or urge incontinence)
- Pregnancy-related pain and preparing for baby
- Postpartum recovery (back and neck pain, pelvic pain, bladder function, return to exercise, abdominal muscle separation)
- Painful sex (dyspareunia)
- Perineal pain (vulvodynia, vaginismus)
- Sacroiliac joint pain
- Tailbone or pubic symphysis pain
- Pain related to endometriosis and menstruation
- Pelvic organ prolapse
- Scar tissue restriction
- Pudendal nerve entrapment
How Pelvic Health Physical Therapy Can Help You
At Active PT, our pelvic health physical therapists will address your pelvic pain or dysfunction. We work to restore normal function by treating trigger point pain and improving muscle coordination, strength, and function. A comprehensive internal and external muscle examination thoroughly assesses your pelvic floor function. Next, we provide a customized treatment plan that addresses your concerns and helps improve your quality of life. All pelvic health physical therapy sessions are one-on-one, in a private room, and individualized to your specific needs and comfort level.
Pelvic Health Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if pelvic floor therapy is right for me?
Urinary incontinence, constipation, pelvic organ prolapse, pain with intercourse and other conditions may be caused by pelvic floor dysfunction. The pelvic floor is made up of muscles that serve many functions including supporting organs, controlling bladder and bowel function, sexual appreciation, and orgasm. Your physical therapist will perform an evaluation to determine the best course of treatment and may use a number of techniques to help improve your muscle function.
Is there more to pelvic floor physical therapy than learning Kegels?
Yes. While strengthening your pelvic floor muscles by doing Kegel exercises may be an appropriate part of your treatment plan, there are other important interventions that will improve your outcome. Furthermore, there are some cases where Kegel exercises could make symptoms worse. Evaluation by a trained therapist will aid in determining which interventions are right for you.
I have my period, can I still come?
Yes, it can be helpful to assess the activity of your pelvic floor while menstruating, especially if you have symptoms associated with your period. However, you always have the ability to decline internal treatment at any point during your care. Our sessions include a variety of beneficial treatment approaches.
What is expected of me in order to be successful?
Your therapist is trained to establish a plan of care that is individualized for you, and follow-up in the clinic will ensure you achieve your goals as quickly as possible. To get the best possible results, it is critical that you complete your home exercises as prescribed. Your physical therapist is your coach in this regard, but meaningful change can only occur with practice. We know pelvic floor physical therapy is a sensitive subject, but our highly trained therapists will make you feel comfortable during treatment and are happy to answer all of your questions.
What will my first appointment look like? Do I have to have a pelvic exam?
Your initial appointment typically takes about 60 minutes. During that time, your specialized pelvic health physical therapist will discuss your symptoms and concerns. The therapist will also assess other areas, such as your hips and back, to look for possible non-pelvic floor causes of your problem. The initial appointment will include education regarding the anatomy and function of the pelvic floor. If indicated, an assessment of the pelvic floor muscles can help the therapist determine the best plan of care for you.
I am pregnant right now, is it safe for me to receive pelvic floor physical therapy?
- Are in the first trimester
- Are on pelvic rest
- Have been told you have a high risk pregnancy
- Have been advised by your medical provider to not receive pelvic floor physical therapy
- Choose not to have this type of therapy as part of your treatment plan
How long are my appointments and how many visits will I need?
Appointments are typically 45-60 minutes depending on your needs. On average, our patients receiving pelvic floor therapy need 6-12 visits to meet their individual goals.
