AN INTRODUCTION TO ALL THINGS PELVIC FLOOR!
Have you ever been curious about pelvic floor physical therapy? Never heard of it, perhaps? Or thought it was just for your Grandma? This blog series is going to serve as an introduction to the basics of all things pelvic floor including a look into a typical treatment session, common pelvic floor conditions, and how a pelvic floor therapist (like me!) can help you navigate pelvic floor health.
What is the pelvic floor? What does it do?
Everyone has a pelvic floor! The pelvic floor is a group of muscles and connective tissue located at the bottom of the pelvis. They act like a hammock, supporting our pelvic organs including the bladder, rectum, and genitalia. Their main functions include maintaining continence (control of urination and defecation), sexual function and postural support.
What are some common pelvic floor conditions?
The most common conditions I treat in pelvic floor PT include:
Urinary incontinence
Pelvic pain
Overactive bladder / Interstitial cystitis
Sexual dysfunction
Constipation and fecal incontinence
Pelvic organ prolapse
All of these have various causes and influencing factors and can happen at any time (for the most part) in your lifespan! For example, urinary incontinence is common in young female athletes (up to 48.5%!), during pregnancy and postpartum, and menopause.
What does a typical visit look like? Do I have to take off my pants?
No! An internal pelvic floor exam is not mandatory for receiving pelvic floor treatment. Your PT may suggest when and if it would be helpful for further insight, but it is YOUR choice to participate in the exam.
Your first visit with a pelvic floor PT starts with a comprehensive conversation of your current condition including urinary, bowel and sexual function, any musculoskeletal aches and pains, and relevant medical history. We discuss like water and fiber intake, toileting habits, exercise, sleep hygiene, and goals.
After this, we move onto a physical assessment which can include an internal pelvic floor exam, of which the priority is your consent and comfort. Pelvic floor PTs do not use speculums or other tools, instead completing the exam with a single finger. A vaginal (or rectal, depending on your anatomy and relevant issues) exam will assess your symptoms, pelvic floor tone (if your muscles are overly tight), coordination, strength and endurance. Depending on your condition, this exam may be completed in a reclined position or in standing (important for those people who have symptoms with squatting or deadlifting).
Treatment and More Pelvic Floor Tips
After the exam, we start treatment with either some manual therapy techniques for pelvic floor release, or specific exercises to help with pelvic floor function. Treatment choice is tailored to the individual, and no person’s program will be the same. Stay tuned for next week, we’re going to start diving into athletic incontinence, which is urinary (or fecal) incontinence that only occurs during sport. Look for some helpful tips if you ever pee during lifting, running, or gymnastics!
And remember to check out all our Recovery Lounge services - book a massage, get physical therapy, and more!