What is pelvic floor physical therapy?

Whether you are suffering from pain, leakage, bowel concerns, sexual concerns, prolapse, or are preparing for/recovering from pregnancy, you likely would benefit from pelvic floor physical therapy.

Pelvic floor physical therapists are highly specialized physical therapists that have taken advanced coursework in helping patients manage concerns and symptoms in and around the pelvis.

So what is pelvic floor physical therapy?

Pelvic floor physical therapy is physical therapy that is targeted at the muscles that attach to the bottom of the pelvis (known as the pelvic floor muscles). These muscles help control our bowel, bladder, and sexual function. Just as a physical therapist would use exercises and manual techniques to help a patient improve the strength and range of motion of their shoulder, pelvic floor physical therapists use a variety of exercises and manual techniques to help improve the function of someone’s pelvic floor.

Typically, pelvic floor physical therapy includes both internal (meaning inside) and external (meaning outside) pelvic techniques. Internal pelvic techniques are performed intra-vaginally and/or intra-rectally based on patient symptoms and comfort, and area of concern. External pelvic techniques are targeted at the muscles and joints that sit outside of the vagina and rectum and are just as important as these structures have significant control over how the internal pelvic muscles are functioning.

Often times people think that women are the only ones who have a pelvis and therefore the only ones that suffer from pelvic floor dysfunction. Everyone regardless of age or gender, has a pelvis. However, pelvic floor physical therapists may further specialize and may only treat a certain age or gender.

If you are struggling with bowel, bladder, and/or sexual function concerns, you likely would benefit from pelvic floor physical therapy. Looking to find a qualified pelvic floor physical therapist is your area? Click here