What is Pelvic Floor Therapy?
Pelvic floor therapy is a specialized type of therapy that focuses on the strengthening and lengthening of the pelvic floor muscles. It helps alleviate symptoms associated with pelvic floor dysfunction such as incontinence, pelvic pain, constipation, and sexual dysfunction. Similar to traditional occupational and physical therapy, exercises and stretches are tailored to each client and their needs. Uniquely, Pelvic floor therapy utilizes a combination of external and internal techniques to treat symptoms, depending on patient comfort level and clinical judgement.
When do I know if I should see a pelvic floor therapist?
You should consider working with a pelvic floor therapist if you are experiencing the following:
● Leaking with sneezing, laughing, coughing, or exercise
● Urinary frequency, urgency, or incomplete emptying
● Constipation or straining with bowel movements
● Pain with insertion of tampon
● Pain with intimacy
● Pelvic heaviness, bulging, or pressure
● Chronic low back or hip pain
● Core weakness
● Diastasis recti
● Recovery after a hysterectomy or bladder surgery
● Are postpartum and returning to daily activities/exercise
● Are in perimenopause/menopause and experience a change in pelvic health
Common diagnosis we treat:
● Urinary/fecal incontinence
● Pelvic pain
● Prolapse
● Vaginismus
● Constipation
● Diastasis Recti
● Interstitial Cystitis
● Fertility
What can I expect from a pelvic floor therapy session?
● 90 minute initial evaluation
● 60 minute follow up sessions 1:1 attention
● Manual therapy techniques to promote improved pelvic health
● Education on lifestyle and behavioral modifications
● Breathwork
● Exercises/stretches to treat your pelvic floor
● Nervous System Regulation techniques to promote systemic relaxation