What is Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy?

Pelvic floor physical therapy is a specialized branch of physical therapy that focuses on the muscles, ligaments, and connective tissues of the pelvic floor. The pelvic floor is a group of muscles located at the base of the pelvis, extending from the pubic bone to the tailbone. These muscles play a crucial role in supporting the pelvic organs, including the bladder, uterus, and rectum. Pelvic floor physical therapy is often recommended for individuals, both men and women, who experience dysfunction or pain in the pelvic region.

During pelvic floor physical therapy, a trained physical therapist works with the patient to assess the pelvic floor muscles and identify any areas of dysfunction. The therapist may use a combination of manual techniques, biofeedback, and specific exercises to address muscle imbalances, weakness, or tension in the pelvic floor. Treatment plans are tailored to the individual’s needs and may include exercises to strengthen or relax the pelvic floor muscles, education on proper posture and body mechanics, and strategies for managing symptoms. The goal is to improve the function and coordination of the pelvic floor muscles, alleviate pain, and enhance overall pelvic health.

Patients may also be educated on lifestyle modifications and behavioral strategies to promote better pelvic floor function. Pelvic floor physical therapy is a conservative and non-invasive approach that can be highly effective in addressing a variety of pelvic floor disorders. It is essential for individuals experiencing pelvic floor issues to consult with a healthcare professional to determine the most appropriate course of treatment.

Services Offered

• One-on-one sessions in a private treatment room. Treatment sessions for 60 min.
• At the time of evaluation, we will perform a comprehensive musculoskeletal and biomechanical evaluation including internal pelvic floor muscle assessment.
• Advanced external and/or internal manual therapy techniques such as soft tissue mobilization, myofascial release, visceral manipulation, nerve manipulation, craniosacral therapy, and scar massage.
• Biofeedback training  for muscle recruitment and/or relaxation.
• Electrical stimulation for neuromuscular re-education or pain control.
• Bladder and bowel retraining for maximizing voluntary control of pelvic floor muscles.
• Therapeutic exercises such as Kegel’s, postural re-education, muscle relaxation, core stabilization.
• Reintegration to Pilates, core strengthening and advanced resistance training and sports performance.
• Evidence based exercise prescription – individualized to clinical needs
• Instruction in self-management techniques and comprehensive home management program designed to empower you to take control of your symptoms and improve quality of life.
• Prenatal & Post-Partum Physical Therapy.

Diagnoses that we treat at our Pelvic Health Clinic

Musculoskeletal

1. Groin pain/ injuries
2. Sacroilliac dysfunctions / SI joint pain
3. Low back pain – prenatal , post-partum
4. Abdominal pains
5. Scar pain – Secondary to surgeries, birth injuries and C-section.
6. Dyspareunia- painful sex
7. Coccyx pain- tailbone pain

Bowel Dysfunction

1. Fecal incontinence – involuntary loss of stools
2. Constipation – difficulty with complete evacuation of bowels
3. Painful defecation- Pain before, during or after bowel movement.

Urinary Dysfnction

1. Urinary frequency ( need to void more than once every 2 hours)
2. Urinary urgency ( involuntary loss of urine accompanied by strong urges )
3. Urinary incontinence ( loss of urine beyond voluntary control with physical activity like running, jumping or upon return to exercise post-partum)
4. Painful bladder – Interstitial cystitis

Pelvic Floor Therapists