What is Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy?
Pelvic floor therapy is a subspecialty of physical therapy that is not as well known, but certainly important! The pelvic floor is a group of muscles that help to support our internal organs and hips, and just like any other muscle group in the body, the pelvic floor can have muscle imbalances (weakness, tightness) that can lead to pain and dysfunction. Common complaints associated with a pelvic floor dysfunction can include pelvic pain, pain with sexual intercourse, as well as incontinence and issues arising during or after pregnancy + childbirth.
What happens during Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy?
Just like any other PT evaluation, a pelvic floor evaluation starts with an in-depth conversation between you and your physical therapist about your complaints and medical history. You will also have a comprehensive screening of your low back / hip motion and strength. If deemed appropriate by your PT, and with your consent, there is also a component that involves an internal exam – however, different than an exam at the OBGYN, there is no speculum and the goal is to assess how well the pelvic floor muscles contract, relax, and work together with the rest of the body!
So many of these issues are considered taboo and difficult to talk about, as they can be sensitive in nature, but they are so very common and can be resolved! You do not have to suffer in silence.
Julia Masse, DPT, Staff PT, is now taking pelvic floor clients as a sub-specialty so if any of the above dysfunctions are issues you are dealing with, call FBPT to schedule an appointment!