What Is Pelvic Floor Rehabilitation
Physical therapy for the pelvic floor aims to relieve discomfort, weakness, and malfunction in the muscles of the pelvic region. These muscles support the bladder and bowel and control urine and stool function. Pelvic floor therapy can help men and women of all ages who have problems with urinary incontinence, fecal incontinence, pelvic pain, sexual dysfunction, and more.
Pelvic floor physical therapy is a specialized form of physical therapy that focuses on strengthening the muscles. For decades, doctors have used physical therapy to treat pelvic floor dysfunction effectively without surgery. Various techniques may be used during pelvic floor rehabilitation. The goal is to retrain the muscles and help the patient return to normal function.
Importance of Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy
Pelvic floor physical therapy is an important treatment option for many conditions. It can be used to prevent various conditions from developing or worsening.
There are many benefits to pelvic floor physical therapy. It is non-invasive, safe, and effective. It can be used to treat a wide range of conditions. Pelvic floor physical therapy can be used as a standalone treatment or in conjunction with other treatments, such as medication or surgery.
What to Expect at Your First Physical Therapy Session
When you first see a pelvic floor physical therapist, you will be asked about your symptoms, medical history, and goals for treatment. The physical therapist will then perform a physical examination. This may include a pelvic exam, rectal exam, and/or internal vaginal exam. The physical therapist will also assess your posture, range of motion, and strength. Based on the examination, the physical therapist will develop a treatment plan.
Treatment plans may include exercises, Biofeedback, electrical stimulation, and manual therapy. Treatment plans are typically designed to improve the function of the pelvic floor muscles. The goal is to relieve symptoms and improve quality of life.
Treatment Tools
Pelvic floor physical therapy uses various tools, exercises, and techniques. The type of treatment depends on the individual and the condition being treated.
Tools:
- Biofeedback: This is a method of monitoring the pelvic floor muscles. Biofeedback can be used to retrain the muscles.
- Electrical stimulation: This is a method of stimulating the pelvic floor muscles with electrical impulses. Electrical stimulation can be used to improve muscle function.
- Manual therapy: This is a type of hands-on therapy. The physical therapist will use their hands to massage, stretch, and manipulate the muscles.
Pelvic floor physical therapy is a safe and effective treatment for many conditions. It is an important treatment option for anyone with pelvic floor dysfunction.
