PELVIC FLOOR
How Can Therapy Help with PELVIC FLOOR?
The pelvic floor muscles are the muscles commonly known to stop the flow of urine, control flatulence or perform a Kegel. They also provide support to the organs within the pelvis including the bladder, bowel and uterus. If these muscles aren’t working properly, whether they’re too tight, weak or simply uncoordinated, they can have an effect on these systems.
when is this form of treatment recommended?
A referral could come from your family doctor, obstetrician, gynecologist or urologist but a referral is only necessary if you are using private insurance and your policy requires it.
Diagnoses that may be made by doctors for a referral to pelvic floor therapy could be:
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Stress incontinence
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Urgency or urge incontinence
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Overactive Bladder
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Pelvic Organ Prolapse (POP)
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Also known as: rectocele, cystocele, uterine prolapse or urethrocele depending on which organ is involved
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Pre-natal education and birth preparation
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Post-partum: incontinence, vaginal tearing, diastasis recti or cesarean section scar management
Pelvic floor therapy can also be sought out for educational and preventative purposes in order to learn about themselves and how to stay as mobile, strong and in-tune with their own bodies as possible. Another specific group of people that would greatly benefit from a pelvic floor assessment would be women going through the changes of menopause.
what to exPeCt on your first visit
A pelvic floor assessment would involve a detailed subjective examination asking various questions regarding past medical history, urinary, bowel and sexual function. An objective assessment involving an external examination observing posture, low back and pelvic movement, and core and hip strength would follow.
Once everything has been assessed, education will be provided on the examination findings and a treatment plan will be discussed. Treatment is dependent on the assessment but may involve pelvic floor strengthening exercises, relaxation exercises, manual therapy techniques for the muscles or joints, breathing techniques, low back and hip mobility and strengthening, behavioral modification techniques including filling out a bladder diary or optimizing bowel routine.
It is important to note that consent must be achieved before beginning the assessment and if at any point you are uncomfortable or have questions regarding part of the assessment or treatment it is vital that you share this with the your therapist and adjustments will be made accordingly.
who can help me?
ASHLEY GERBRANDT
