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The pelvic floor is comprised of the muscles that support and keep in place the urinary and reproductive tracts and control the bladder and bowels for men and women. When these muscles become weak or do not work together as they should, discomfort, pain and other problems can occur.
Pelvic floor therapy can offer a comprehensive approach to pelvic health that benefits both men and women of all ages. During therapy sessions, you will receive detailed education about the anatomy and function of the pelvic floor muscles as well as lifestyle modifications and exercises to support your recovery when dealing with the following issues:
Pain Relief
Pelvic pain can affect anyone, regardless of whether they’ve given birth. Conditions like chronic pelvic pain, endometriosis, pudendal neuralgia, and pelvic floor muscle dysfunction can cause discomfort and limit daily activities. Oftentimes, chronic back pain and hip pain can have pelvic components, and if you have lingering symptoms, consider seeing a pelvic floor physical therapist.
Pelvic floor therapy offers effective strategies for managing and reducing pelvic pain. Skilled therapists use a combination of manual techniques, relaxation exercises, and gentle stretches to alleviate tension, release trigger points, and restore balance to the pelvic floor muscles. Whether you’re experiencing pain due to a sports injury, surgery, pregnancy, surgery, or other factors, pelvic floor therapy can be a game-changer.
Urinary and Bowel Control
Urinary and bowel incontinence can affect individuals of all ages due to factors such as aging, hormonal changes, surgery, pregnancy, or weakened pelvic floor muscles. Pelvic floor therapy addresses these issues by improving muscle strength, coordination, and control. Therapists work with patients to develop tailored exercise programs, provide biofeedback training, and educate on bladder and bowel habits. By addressing the root causes of incontinence, pelvic floor therapy can help you regain control and restore confidence in your daily life.
Sexual Health and Function
Sexual health is a vital aspect of overall well-being, and pelvic floor therapy plays a significant role in supporting sexual function for all individuals. Pelvic floor dysfunction can contribute to issues such as pain during intercourse, reduced sexual sensation, and difficulty achieving orgasm. Through pelvic floor therapy, patients can experience improved blood flow, decreased muscle tension, and increased neuromuscular coordination in the pelvic region. While painful intercourse may be common, it’s not normal and there are evidence-based treatments to address it.
Pre- and Postoperative Care
Pelvic floor therapy is valuable as a part of pre- and postoperative care for various abdominal and pelvic surgeries. Whether you're undergoing procedures such as an abdominoplasty, hysterectomy, surgery for endometriosis, prostate surgery, or gender-affirming surgery, pelvic floor therapy can help prepare the pelvic floor muscles for surgery, aid in recovery, and promote optimal healing. It can reduce scar tissue formation, minimize postoperative pain, and enhance overall mobility and function.
Finding a Provider
Remember, if you're experiencing any pelvic-related issues, whether it's pain, incontinence, sexual dysfunction, or preparing for surgery, don't hesitate to discuss your concerns with your healthcare provider. At Atrius Health, we can offer some appointments for pelvic floor therapy at our Kenmore location. However, given pelvic floor physical therapists are in high demand and can often have a several month-long waitlist, it can be helpful to call around to various providers and get on multiple wait lists.
To search for pelvic floor providers in your area, visit Pelvic Rehab or the Pelvic Health PT Locator. Working with a skilled pelvic floor therapist can provide the specialized care you need, equip you with the tools necessary to actively participate in your own healing process, and maintain long-term pelvic floor health, empowering you to live a life free from limitations.
