What is Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy?
Pelvic health physical therapists | Musculoskeletal experts trained in assessing your body from head to toe, with extensive, specialized training in the evaluation and treatment of dysfunctions related to the pelvic floor, including those with urinary, bowel or sexual dysfunctions. We are also specialists in treating the perinatal population, offering support through pregnancy and the postpartum period.
What to expect during your first pelvic floor physical therapy visit
During the first visit, your physical therapist will review your medical history with you, as well as ask questions about your symptoms, issues and specific goals. The first visit may include an external assessment: your physical therapist will examine your posture, strength, range of motion, and how you are moving. For some, an internal assessment may be performed (always prefaced with thorough education on the pelvic anatomy with a model pelvis or illustrations, and your informed consent).
In order to assess the pelvic floor muscles (PFM), an internal assessment may be performed vaginally or rectally, depending on the issues that bring you in. No speculum or stirrups are used, just a gloved and lubricated finger to perform the PFM assessment.
Through this internal assessment, your physical therapist will be able to:
Determine your PFM’s ability to contract and relax | Assess for PFM coordination | Check for skin irritations or structural changes | Measure PFM strength and range of motion | Evaluate for areas of tightness or restrictions
What a treatment plan typically looks like
This ranges significantly depending on your symptoms! However, your physical therapist will always be working directly with you to create a thorough and individualized treatment plan to help you reach your goals. Treatments may or may not always include internal assessment - movement and specific exercise can be key parts of sessions. Most patients are provided with exercises to continue to perform at home.
Foundations Pelvic Health was founded to provide compassionate care for those with pelvic floor dysfunctions, but addressing those with also an orthopedic lens - meaning that we believe in the importance of assessing the whole body, as well as movement and function! Visit our serene practice located in Boston’s South End.