What is Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy?

What is the Pelvic Floor?

First we must define what the pelvic floor is. The pelvic floor is a group of muscles and connective tissue that make up the “floor” of your pelvis. This group of muscles act similarly to a trampoline or a hammock that sit at the base of your torso. These muscles are EXTREMELY important. They help support our organs, they help us with urination and defecation, they help us with pressure management so we don’t leak urine when we cough of sneeze, and they assist with sexual function. These muscles also act as a shock absorbing unit between out lower and upper body.

What is a Pelvic Floor Physical Therapist?

Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy addresses any kind of dysfunction involved in the pelvic floor. Pelvic Floor Physical Therapist’s have graduated from Physical Therapy school with a general degree and then go on to receive additional education in order to specialize in this area. Pelvic Floor Physical Therapists are taught how to perform internal examinations both vaginally and rectally, by licensed professionals in the field and this is commonly a component of the assessment and treatment of the pelvic floor if the patient consents. This may sound intimidating, but it allows us to assess the musculature and help us to determine the root cause of pelvic floor dysfunction. Pelvic Floor Physical Therapists also have extensive knowledge on human anatomy and biomechanics used to help treat our patients with a full body approach. We are also educated on lifestyle changes that can be made to address different types of pelvic floor dysfunction.

What to Expect on Day 1

During your initial evaluation we will discuss your symptoms, lifestyle, and goals for physical therapy in depth. Then we will complete an objective exam this may include a functional movement analysis, muscle testing, range of motion testing, a walking analysis, and a pelvic floor internal exam (if patient consents). These tests provide us with information about what may be causing your pelvic floor dysfunction and tell us areas we need to focus on to help you reach your goals. At the conclusion of your evaluation we will discuss the recommended frequency and duration of care that is expected based upon your symptoms and our findings in the evaluation.

What to Expect Moving Forward

After your evaluation we will perform treatments for your pelvic floor dysfunction which may include manual therapy, strength training, muscle relaxation and stretching techniques, breathing exercises, and lifestyle education and modification, etc.