Sage Physical Therapy & Wellness
Pelvic Floor Therapy
Pelvic floor therapy is a branch of physical therapy that concentrates on the muscles, ligaments, and connective tissues responsible for supporting the pelvic organs, such as the bladder, uterus, and rectum. The primary objective of pelvic floor therapy services is to effectively treat a range of dysfunctions and disorders related to the pelvic floor.
Here are some key aspects of pelvic floor therapy services:
- Assessment and Evaluation: A thorough assessment is conducted to evaluate the function and strength of the pelvic floor muscles. This may involve internal and external examinations to identify areas of tension, weakness, or dysfunction.
- Education and Counseling: Patients receive education about the anatomy of the pelvic floor and how it functions. Therapists provide information on lifestyle factors, posture, and habits that may contribute to pelvic floor issues.
- Muscle Strengthening and Relaxation Techniques: Pelvic floor therapists teach exercises to strengthen or relax specific muscles based on individual needs. This may include kegel exercises, biofeedback, and other therapeutic techniques.
- Manual Therapy: Hands-on techniques may be used to release tension in the pelvic floor muscles and improve mobility. Manual therapy can include internal and external massage, myofascial release, and trigger point therapy.
- Biofeedback: Biofeedback is a technique that provides real-time information about muscle activity. Sensors are used to monitor pelvic floor muscle contractions, and patients receive feedback to help them learn how to control and coordinate these muscles.
- Electrical Stimulation: In some cases, electrical stimulation may be used to stimulate or strengthen pelvic floor muscles. This involves the use of low-level electrical currents to target specific muscle groups.
- Bladder and Bowel Retraining: Pelvic floor therapy may include strategies for retraining the bladder and bowel to improve control and reduce symptoms of incontinence or urgency.
- Posture and Alignment Correction: Therapists may address posture and body mechanics to improve pelvic floor function. Poor posture can contribute to pelvic floor dysfunction, and corrective strategies may be included in the therapy plan.
- Pain Management: For individuals experiencing pelvic pain, therapists may employ techniques to manage and reduce pain. This could include relaxation exercises, manual therapy, and strategies to address any contributing factors.
- Treatment of Specific Conditions: Pelvic floor therapy is beneficial for a variety of conditions, including pelvic pain, urinary incontinence, fecal incontinence, pelvic organ prolapse, and sexual dysfunction. Treatment plans are tailored to address the specific needs of the individual.
- Home Exercise Programs: Patients are often provided with home exercises and self-care techniques to complement in-office therapy sessions and promote ongoing progress.
Pelvic floor therapy offers a range of benefits. Here are some of the key advantages:
Pelvic floor therapy improves muscle function and bladder and bowel control, reduces pelvic pain, treats pelvic organ prolapse, enhances sexual function, prevents and manages pelvic floor disorders, and increases awareness of pelvic health.