What is pelvic health or “pelvic floor” physical therapy? It is a specialty practice within physical therapy. The “pelvic floor” is a system of muscles, fascia, tendons and nerves. Because it adapts and changes with movement and impacts our daily function, it is part of the scope of a physical therapist. A pelvic health physical therapist can utilize exercise and deliver manual therapy to influence it like other neuromuscular systems in the body. The pelvic floor of our body is a busy place! It is integral in maintaining the continence of our urine and stool, prominent in sexual function and reproduction, works with our diaphragm in respiration and supports our organs as we move through our environment.
Our pelvic floor muscles have an emotional memory as well making it difficult to talk about problems in that area, like pelvic pain, trauma, urinary or fecal issues. Our highly trained clinicians understand this and are experts in building trust and helping patients to feel comfortable.
The initial evaluation consists of assessing your medical history and explaining how pelvic floor physical therapy can help with a bladder or bowel issue, or pelvic pain. Your therapist will give you detailed information about pelvic anatomy and physiology at your first visit to help you understand the connection of the pelvic floor to your impairment. We know most of our patients are new to this type of therapy and our therapists will respect your boundaries and work with you in partnership at a pace that allows you to feel comfortable. Our therapists are excellent at listening to your concerns.
Each pelvic health patient receives 1 hour of one-on-one, personalized care with her physical therapist. Throughout your plan of care, you and your therapist will decide together what is right for you based on your condition and your comfort level.