What Is Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy?
The pelvic floor is a group of small muscles on the underside of our pelvis with important responsibilities such as bowel and bladder control, organ support, core stability, and sexual function.
Pelvic floor physical therapy focuses on improving pelvic floor function to help patients struggling with bowel movements, urination, intercourse, and pelvic pain.
Is pelvic floor physical therapy right for you? Both men and women can benefit from pelvic floor therapy. Common diagnoses include: urinary incontinence, prolapse, endometriosis, interstitial cystitis, vaginismus, constipation, pain with intimacy, tailbone pain/pain with sitting.
Physicians often recommend pelvic floor therapy fo men suffering premature or painful ejaculation can also benefit from pelvic floor therapy.
Pelvic floor physical therapy consists of various techniques designed to address different pelvic health-related issues. These techniques range from manual therapy and exercise to education regarding all things pelvic floor.
When Should You See a Therapist for Your Pelvic Health Issues?
Your physician may recommend pelvic floor therapy if you suffer from any of the following conditions.
- chronic pelvic pain
- pain in the lower back
- pain during intercourse
- pregnancy or childbirth-related dysfunction
- prostatitis
- incontinence
- abdominal diastasis
If you are suffering from any of the above conditions, seeing a pelvic floor therapist as soon as possible is the best way to begin a healthy recovery process.
Pelvic floor therapy is also recommended for women who are pregnant, are planning to get pregnant, or are in postpartum. Pelvic health before and during pregnancy is critical for both the baby and mom’s health. It can also help women who have just given birth promote a healthier recovery.
How Does Pelvic Floor Therapy Work?
Is pelvic floor physical therapy right for you? Pelvic floor therapy consists of various techniques to help patients struggling with different conditions.
The first thing a therapist will do is educate the patient on their specific condition. Education is key to helping the patient understand their body’s anatomy and how it functions. Patients can learn about effective habits and other practices to promote proper pelvic health and what may be causing their symptoms.
Pelvic floor therapy also includes exercises and manual therapy. Pelvic floor exercises teach patients helpful breathing techniques and how to relax and contract pelvic muscles. For manual therapy, a therapist will use massages and stretches to promote mobility, circulation, and effective muscle length.
The Benefits of Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy
Pelvic floor therapy is an effective tool to help patients address various health issues. One of the key benefits of pelvic floor therapy is improving mobility and flexibility. With regular therapy sessions, patients can learn to relax, contract, and stretch their muscles for pain relief and improved comfort.
Pelvic floor therapy can help patients improve several areas of their life. For example, regular pelvic therapy sessions are an effective treatment for those suffering from incontinence, painful intercourse, and chronic pelvic pain. Patients can see results and start to experience relief after just a few sessions of therapy.
Common Misconceptions About Pelvic Floor PT
Like any other treatment, there are several misconceptions about pelvic floor therapy.
It’s Only for Pregnant Women
Pelvic floor therapy is highly recommended for women who are pregnant or have just given birth; however, it addresses more than maternal health issues. Both men and women have pelvic muscles that can benefit from pelvic floor therapy. It addresses concerns with bowel movements, urination, and pelvic muscles.
Pelvic Floor Dysfunction Is Just a Natural Part of Aging
Many patients believe that dysfunction or pelvic pain is a normal part of aging. The good news is that you don’t have to accept your pelvic pain. With pelvic floor therapy, you find relief from pelvic dysfunction.
Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy | Upstate Spine & Sport
Is pelvic floor physical therapy right for you? Upstate Spine & Sport in Greenville, SC, can help you understand your options.
If you suffer from chronic pelvic pain, incontinence, or painful intercourse, it’s time to find a pelvic floor physical therapist in Greenville, SC. The Upstate Spine & Sport professionals understand the unique anatomy of the pelvic system and are passionate about helping patients find relief.
If you are looking for a Greenville, SC, chiropractor or physical therapist, you’ve come to the right place. Contact Upstate Spine & Sport at (864) 400-8005 to schedule an appointment.
