What exactly is Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy?
Have you ever leaked when you have laughed, sneezed or coughed?
Have you felt like you are using the restroom multiple times before an exercise class or 5K run and NOTHING comes out?
Has your body felt “broken” after giving birth?
Have you experienced back pain during pregnancy that doesn’t go away?
Have you felt pain during intercourse or using a tampon?
Have you felt constipated and needs to strain to pass a bowel movement?
What is Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy?
If you answered yes to any of these questions, then pelvic floor physical therapy (PFPT) is right for you. As a physical therapist, I work with the muscles, fascia, and nerves of the body. Specifically, as a PFPT, I focus on treating the muscles and nerves that constitute the pelvic floor—the area where you pee and poop. I have the opportunity to address the embarrassing, frustrating, and complex conditions that occur in this area, topics that NO ONE wants to talk about. After I initiate the conversation, the response I often hear is “I wish I found you sooner.” Now that you have, let’s learn about your muscles.
Your pelvic floor muscles span from your tailbone to the pubic bone, similar to a hammock, and sit between your sit bones. This area has some important functions, and when they go wrong, it can be embarrassing. The pelvic floor functions include:
1. Control for bowel and bladder function
2. Support for internal pelvic organs
3. Aids in sexual function
4. Intricate component for abdominal and back stability
5. Support for the baby during pregnancy and birthing process
Image used with permission from Pelvic Guru®, LLC www.pelvicglobal.com
So, what conditions can Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy treat?
Check out the list below for multiple conditions I can address!
Urinary Incontinence Conditions
Leaking with coughing, laughing, sneezing or exercises
Overactive bladder
Strong and frequent urges to use the restroom
Difficulty emptying or initiating a urine stream
Pregnancy and Postpartum Conditions:
Diastasis recti abdominis (abdominal separation)
Public Symphysis pain
Sciatica/low back/hip pain
C-section incisions or sensitivity
Poor abdominal support or body mechanics
Birth prep
Pelvic Pain Conditions:
Painful Intercourse pelvic exams or tampon use
Tailbone pain
Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID)
Bowel Conditions:
Chronic Constipation
Diarrhea
Straining
Frequent bowel movement
Other:
Pelvic Organ Prolapse
Dysfunction associated with Endometriosis, Irritable Bowel Syndrome, and Interstitial Cystitis
Whew, that was a long list! After reading the above, you may have found something you've been dealing with. The good news is, you don't have to anymore! In Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy (PFPT), a thorough exam is performed to determine the root cause of your complaint. This exam may include an internal vaginal muscle exam, but it will only happen with your consent and comfort. Once a diagnosis is determined, a unique and specific treatment plan is provided for you. Feel free to contact me or book an appointment to learn more.
