Pelvic floor physiotherapy is a specialized field within physical therapy that focuses on assessing and treating the muscles of the pelvic floor. These muscles play a pivotal role in various bodily functions, including:
Urinary and Bowel Control: The pelvic floor muscles help regulate urination and bowel movements. When these muscles are weak or dysfunctional, issues like urinary incontinence and constipation can arise.
Sexual Function: A healthy pelvic floor contributes to sexual well-being.
Pelvic Stability: The pelvic floor provides stability to the pelvis, supporting the spine and surrounding organs.
When Do You Need Pelvic Floor Therapy?
Pelvic floor therapy is appropriate for individuals experiencing various pelvic floor issues. These may include:
Low Tone or High Tone Dysfunction: Whether your pelvic floor muscles are too tight (high tone) or too weak (low tone), physiotherapy can help restore balance.
Pelvic Pain: If you’re dealing with pelvic pain, whether due to muscle tension or other factors, pelvic floor therapy can provide relief.
Postpartum Changes: Pregnancy and childbirth can impact the pelvic floor. Physiotherapy helps women regain strength and function after giving birth.
Bladder Problems: Whether it’s urgency, leakage, or other bladder-related issues, pelvic floor therapy can address them effectively.
Colorectal and Other Cancers: After cancer treatment, rehabilitation through pelvic floor therapy may aid in recovery.
What to Expect During Pelvic Floor Therapy
Evaluation: When you arrive for your pelvic floor therapy session, your physical therapist will review your medical history and symptoms.
Muscle Assessment: Your therapist evaluates your ability to contract and relax the pelvic floor muscles voluntarily. They also observe how your pelvic floor moves with your breathing patterns.
Treatment Plan: Based on the assessment, your therapist will create a personalized treatment plan. Physiotherapy for pelvic health conditions may include a combination of approaches such as:
kegel and progressive strengthening exercises
stretching
manual therapy
bladder or bowel retraining
electrical muscle stimulation
biofeedback
behavioural techniques and education
Benefits of Pelvic Floor Physiotherapy
Minimally Invasive: Pelvic floor therapy offers a non-surgical approach to addressing various pelvic floor dysfunctions.
Improved Quality of Life: By enhancing bladder control, reducing pain, and promoting sexual health, it significantly improves overall well-being.
Preventive Care: Even if you don’t currently experience symptoms, pelvic floor therapy can prevent future issues.
Let’s celebrate the power of our pelvic floor muscles and prioritize their care!