Women’s Health/Pelvic Health

Pelvic floor physical therapy is a specialty that involves the assessment and treatment of complications that are usually related to the pelvis. Examples include pain related to the low back, SIJ, and hip areas. Common conditions treated are urinary dysfunction such as incontinence, bowel leakage or constipation, and sexual dysfunction such as pain with intercourse. A comprehensive assessment of the full body is performed to get to the root of the problem. This includes both external and internal examinations (vaginal or rectal if needed) to determine the state of the pelvic floor muscles and how they are interacting with the rest of the bodies central stability system. The pelvic floor muscles form the bottom of the pelvis and attach at the tailbone and pubic bone. They play a role in stabilizing the pelvis and spine, and contribute to urinary, bowel and sexual function. Physical therapy does not only address the pelvic floor muscles, but more importantly the factors that could be contributing to the problem, including altered breathing mechanics and movement dysfunction. Treatment consists of comprehensive education, manual therapy, and specific exercises to help improve the quality of life in each patient. Research demonstrates that pelvic floor physical therapy has been highly effective in the conservative management of urinary incontinence, pelvic organ prolapse, and several other conditions.