From Madison Splan, PT, DPT, WCS, Physical Therapist. The pelvic region is an important part of our anatomy, playing a crucial role in many of our daily functions, including bladder and bowel control, sexual function, and childbirth. Unfortunately, many people experience conditions that affect their pelvic health, leading to discomfort, pain, and reduced quality of life. Thankfully, there is a solution – pelvic health physical therapy. This specialized form of rehabilitation focuses on improving the functioning of the muscles and tissues in the pelvic region, helping to reduce symptoms and enhance overall health and quality of life.
What is Pelvic Health Physical Therapy?
Pelvic health physical therapy is a type of rehabilitation that addresses the specific needs of the pelvic region. Physical therapists use a combination of exercises, manual therapy, and other techniques to treat a variety of conditions, including:
- Intercourse Pain
- Urinary & Fecal Incontinence
- Pelvic Floor Dysfunction
- Urinary Urgency or Retention
- Pelvic Organ Prolapse
- Coccyx Dysfunction
- Diastasis Rectus Abdominus
- Constipation
- Pre & Post Partum Conditions
- Endometriosis & Abdominal Pain
- Post Surgical Recovery
- Transgendered Health
What to Expect During a Pelvic Health Physical Therapy Session
During a pelvic health physical therapy session, a physical therapist will perform an assessment to determine the specific needs of each patient. This may involve a physical examination and a discussion of symptoms and medical history.
Based on the assessment, the physical therapist will develop a personalized treatment plan that may include a combination of the following techniques:
- Pelvic floor muscle exercises: Physical therapists may teach specific exercises to strengthen the pelvic floor muscles, such as kegels and other pelvic muscle contractions.
- Manual therapy: Physical therapists may use hands-on techniques to address any tightness or pain in the pelvic region, such as myofascial release or trigger point therapy.
- Biofeedback: Physical therapists may use biofeedback to help patients better understand their pelvic muscle control and improve their ability to perform pelvic floor muscle exercises.
- Electrical stimulation: Physical therapists may use electrical stimulation to help activate and strengthen the pelvic floor muscles.
- Pelvic tilts: Physical therapists may teach patients how to perform pelvic tilts, which help to improve mobility and stability in the pelvis.
- Education and lifestyle modifications: Physical therapists may provide education and advice on lifestyle modifications to help patients improve their pelvic health.
The physical therapist will work closely with each patient to monitor progress and make any necessary adjustments to the treatment plan as needed and provide ongoing support to help them achieve their goals
Benefits of Pelvic Health Physical Therapy
Pelvic health physical therapy offers many benefits, including:
- Reduced symptoms: By improving the functioning of the muscles and tissues in the pelvic region, patients can experience a reduction in symptoms and/or pain
- Improved function: Physical therapy for pelvic health can help improve overall function, enhancing the quality of life for patients.
- Personalized care: Physical therapists work closely with each patient to develop a personalized treatment plan, ensuring that each patient receives the care and attention they need to achieve their goals
Pelvic health physical therapy is an effective solution for those experiencing conditions and symptoms that affect their pelvic health. With the help of a physical therapist, patients can experience reduced symptoms, improved function, and a higher quality of life. If you are experiencing pelvic health issues, book an appointment to see one of our physical therapists today!
