Pelvic Floor Therapy - Health and Wellness

Pelvic floor therapy is a type of treatment intended to help strengthen or relax the muscles of the pelvic floor. The pelvic floor is a group of muscles in the pelvis that supports the pelvic organs, including the bladder, intestines, and uterus or prostate.

Pelvic floor therapy can help manage a variety of conditions related to the pelvic floor, such as:

1. Urinary or fecal incontinence: This refers to the involuntary loss of urine or fecal matter, which can occur if the pelvic floor muscles are too weak.
2. Pelvic pain: If the pelvic floor muscles are too tight, it can cause chronic pelvic pain.
3. Pelvic organ prolapse: This happens when the pelvic organs descend and press against the vagina due to weakened pelvic floor muscles.
4. Sexual dysfunction: Some forms of sexual dysfunction can be related to problems with the pelvic floor muscles.
5. Postpartum issues: Childbirth can lead to various pelvic floor issues, such as urinary incontinence or pelvic pain.

Pelvic floor therapy typically involves a few different components:

• Education: Therapists provide information about the pelvic floor, how it functions, and how various activities, habits, and conditions can affect it.
• Exercises: Specific exercises, like Kegels, can help strengthen the pelvic floor muscles. Other types of exercises may be used to help relax the muscles if they’re too tight.
• Manual Therapy: Therapists may use hands-on techniques to help relax and lengthen the muscles of the pelvic floor.
• Biofeedback: Sensors can be used to provide a visual or auditory display of your pelvic floor muscle activity, helping you understand and control these muscles.
• Electrical Stimulation: This can be used to help improve awareness of the muscles and their function, reduce muscle tightness, or increase muscle strength.

A referral to a specialized physical therapist trained in pelvic floor therapy is often needed. Your healthcare provider can provide guidance based on your specific symptoms and conditions.