What is Pelvic Floor Therapy??

In recent years, pelvic floor physical therapy has gained significant recognition for its role in addressing a wide range of pelvic health issues. From pelvic pain to urinary incontinence, this specialized form of therapy offers targeted interventions to improve function and quality of life. In this comprehensive guide, we'll delve into the fundamentals of pelvic floor physical therapy, exploring its benefits, techniques, and key considerations.

Pelvic floor physical therapy is a specialty of physical therapy that focuses not only on the pelvic floor, but the whole body as it relates to the pelvic floor.

Pelvic floor therapists take advanced classes and acquire certifications to be able to treat pelvic floor conditions. With a background in orthopedics, we are uniquely qualified to help you truly understand the root causes of your musculoskeletal pain, as well as help you fix it.

Check out more about our pelvic floor physical services here!

What is the Pelvic Floor?

Pelvic floor physical therapy is a specialized branch of physical therapy focused on assessing and treating pelvic floor dysfunction. The pelvic floor is a group of muscles, ligaments, and connective tissues that support the pelvic organs, including the bladder, uterus, and rectum. Dysfunction in this area can manifest in various symptoms, such as urinary or fecal incontinence, pelvic pain, and sexual dysfunction.

The pelvic floor works in conjunction with your diaphragm and deep core to keep you balanced and upright, to help transfer load from daily activities, breathe better, have good bowel movements, and so forth. It's much more of an important canister than we realize.

Common Conditions Treated with Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy

Pelvic floor physical therapy addresses a wide range of conditions, including:

1. Urinary Incontinence: This condition involves involuntary leakage of urine, which can occur with activities such as coughing, sneezing, or exercising.

2. Pelvic Pain: Pelvic pain can be caused by various factors, including muscle tension, inflammation, or injury. Pelvic floor physical therapy aims to identify the underlying cause of pain and provide targeted interventions for relief.

3. Pelvic Organ Prolapse: Pelvic organ prolapse occurs when the pelvic organs descend into the vaginal canal due to weakened pelvic floor muscles. Pelvic floor exercises and other therapeutic techniques can help strengthen these muscles and alleviate symptoms.

4. Dyspareunia (Painful Intercourse): Pain during intercourse can be a result of pelvic floor dysfunction. Pelvic floor physical therapy addresses underlying issues contributing to dyspareunia and provides strategies for pain management.

5. Postpartum Recovery: Pelvic floor physical therapy is beneficial for postpartum women, helping them regain strength and function in the pelvic floor muscles following childbirth.
   

Key Techniques Used in Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy

Pelvic floor physical therapists employ various techniques to address pelvic floor dysfunction, including:

1. Pelvic Floor Exercises (Kegels): These exercises involve contracting and relaxing the pelvic floor muscles to improve strength and coordination. Not only does this involve kegels, it also incorporates hip strengthening and other forms of load management.

2. Manual Therapy: Hands-on techniques, such as soft tissue massage and myofascial release, can help release tension and improve mobility in the pelvic area.

3. Biofeedback: Biofeedback devices provide real-time feedback on pelvic floor muscle activity, helping patients learn to control and strengthen these muscles.

4. Education and Behavioral Strategies: Therapists educate patients about pelvic anatomy, bladder habits, and proper toileting techniques, empowering them to manage symptoms effectively.

Benefits of Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy

Pelvic floor physical therapy offers numerous benefits, including:

• Improved Pelvic Floor Function: Targeted interventions help strengthen weak muscles and improve coordination, leading to better bladder and bowel control.

• Reduced Pain and Discomfort: Therapeutic techniques alleviate pelvic pain and discomfort, enhancing overall quality of life.

• Enhanced Sexual Function: By addressing pelvic floor dysfunction, physical therapy can improve sexual function and satisfaction.

• Improved Posture and Movement: Strengthening the pelvic floor muscles can contribute to better posture, stability, and mobility.

How do I know I should go to pelvic floor PT?

Ask yourself these questions:

1. Does the issue change with movement (either good or bad)?

2. Does the issue impact your quality of life, or a vital & enjoyable function of life?

3. Does the issue revolve around muscle, soft tissue, joint, or bone?

4. Have your at home efforts to resolve it been unsuccessful? Or have other providers' answers been unhelpful?

5. Does the issue revolve around the functions of peeing, sex, or pooping?

If you answered yes to any of the questions above, it's worth checking out pelvic floor physical therapy. As mentioned above, our unique set of skills can provide relief in unexpected areas and is unique to the profession of therapy.

Conclusion

Pelvic floor physical therapy is a highly effective approach to addressing pelvic floor dysfunction and improving pelvic health. By employing specialized techniques and personalized interventions, pelvic floor physical therapists empower individuals to regain control over their bodies and live life to the fullest. If you're experiencing symptoms of pelvic floor dysfunction, consider consulting a pelvic floor physical therapist to explore your treatment options and embark on the path to optimal pelvic health.

Book your free call with Logan here to see if pelvic floor physical therapy is right for you!