CERTIFIED PELVIC FLOOR THERAPY
Women's health physical therapy or pelvic floor physical therapy is a specialty focusing on the rehabilitation or the pelvic floor and abdominal muscle affect by a variety of diagnoses including bladder, bowel, and sexual dysfunction, and pelvic pain. It can also incorporate breast health, such as supporting breastfeeding by treating clogged ducts/mastitis.
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Pelvic floor physical therapy is beneficial for address a variety of conditions involving bowel, bladder, and sexual function, as well as pain. The goal is to return to normal function and quality of life, addressing conditions that may be common but are not normal.
It can also be beneficial for chronic hip, pelvic, tailbone, and back pain as the pelvic floor plays an important role in stability and core strength.
Our therapists will assess the level of strength, muscle tone, and function of the pelvic floor muscle to determine what causes the dysfunction and create an appropriate treatment plan. It is important to be assessed by a specialist since there are no "one size fits all" protocols or treatments for pelvic floor dysfunction.
Typically in an evaluation, we spend time a lot of time on education and understanding history and contributing factors. The objective portion of the evaluation includes assessing abdominal and pelvic floor function, including testing sensation, strength, endurance, and coordination. Individualized treatment may include manual interventions including mobilization of visceral fascia and musculature, and exercise activities and biofeedback to retrain abdominals and pelvic floor to allow them to function correctly.
Frequency and duration vary based on a number of factors, but often the average is 1-2x/week for 6-12 weeks. This will be discussed with patients to make sure we come up with a schedule that works for their individual needs and resources.
There's no too early or too late to try pelvic floor physical therapy. We can address symptoms during pregnancy, as early post-partum as the patient is able to get here, and for years or decades later.