Pelvic Floor Physiotherapy

Pelvic floor physiotherapy focuses on the muscles, ligaments, and tissues in the pelvic area. They are responsible for supporting organs like the bladder, uterus, and rectum. Just like any other muscles in the body, the pelvic floor muscles can experience dysfunctioning that ultimately affects your health.

Pelvic floor physiotherapy treatment begins with an assessment conducted by a trained pelvic floor physiotherapist. This will typically involve a physical examination of the pelvic and surrounding areas, an observation of posture, and an evaluation of the muscle strength. Once an appropriate course of action has been determined, the physiotherapist will prescribe you tailored exercises that may focus on activation and/or relaxation of the pelvic floor muscles. Such exercise may also encompass breathing techniques. In addition to exercise prescription, pelvic floor physiotherapists may employ manual therapy to release tension in the muscles of the pelvic floor.

Examples of Conditions that Pelvic Floor Physiotherapy Can Help With:

• Urinary Incontinence: Pelvic floor physiotherapy can aid in addressing different types of urinary incontinence, such as stress incontinence (leakage when coughing, sneezing, or exercising) and urge incontinence (sudden strong urges to urinate).

• Pelvic Pain: Conditions like pelvic floor muscle tension, vulvodynia, and interstitial cystitis can cause chronic pelvic pain. Pelvic floor physiotherapy can help relax and strengthen these muscles to alleviate pain.

• Pelvic Organ Prolapse: When pelvic organs shift out of place, pelvic floor exercises can help support these organs better.

• Dyspareunia (Painful Intercourse): Pelvic floor physiotherapy can help address pain during sexual intercourse by teaching relaxation techniques and improving muscle function.

• Pre and Postnatal Issues: Pelvic floor physiotherapy can aid pregnant individuals in preparing for childbirth by teaching proper pelvic floor engagement and relaxation. After childbirth, it can assist in recovering pelvic muscle strength that may have been lost during pregnancy.

• Chronic Constipation: Pelvic floor dysfunction can contribute to issues with bowel movements. Physiotherapy can help individuals learn how to coordinate pelvic floor muscles for improved bowel function.

To summarize, pelvic floor physiotherapy is about ensuring your pelvic area functions properly and supports the organs accordingly. Regardless of the pelvic-related issues you may be facing, trained physiotherapists are here to provide exercises, hands-on techniques, and education to optimize your pelvic health and overall well-being.