Pelvic Health

Pelvic health physical therapy is a specialized branch of physical therapy focused on the assessment and treatment of conditions related to the pelvic region. This area of physical therapy is dedicated to addressing issues that affect the muscles, ligaments, and connective tissues in the pelvic area, which includes the pelvis, lower back, and abdomen.

Key aspects of pelvic health physical therapy include:

1. Pelvic Floor Rehabilitation: A primary focus is on the pelvic floor muscles, which support various pelvic organs like the bladder, uterus, and rectum. Physical therapists use various techniques to assess and treat pelvic floor dysfunction, which can manifest as incontinence, pain, or weakness.

2. Conditions Treated: Pelvic health physical therapy is often used to treat a range of conditions, including urinary incontinence, fecal incontinence, pelvic pain , prenatal and postpartum issues, pelvic organ prolapse, and chronic pelvic pain syndromes.

3. Assessment and Diagnosis: Physical therapists specializing in pelvic health conduct thorough assessments to diagnose the root causes of pelvic health issues. This may involve examinations, medical history reviews, and lifestyle assessments.

4. Treatment Modalities: Treatments may involve a combination of manual therapy techniques, exercise programs, biofeedback, electrical stimulation, and lifestyle and behavioral modifications. The specific treatment plan is tailored to the individual's diagnosis and needs.

5. Education and Self-Care: Patients receive education on pelvic health, including strategies for improving their condition and preventing recurrences. This often includes guidance on posture, bladder and bowel habits, and exercises to strengthen or relax pelvic muscles.

6. Preventive Care: Pelvic health physical therapy isn't solely for treating existing conditions; it can also focus on preventive care, especially for women who are pregnant or postpartum.

7. Collaboration: Pelvic health physical therapists often work closely with other healthcare professionals, including gynecologists, urologists, and obstetricians, to ensure comprehensive care for patients.

Pelvic health physical therapy plays a vital role in helping individuals, particularly women, manage and overcome issues related to the pelvic region. It can significantly improve the quality of life for those suffering from conditions that affect this area and is an essential part of a multidisciplinary approach to healthcare.