What does a pelvic floor physical therapist do?

A pelvic floor physical therapist specializes in treating conditions related to the pelvic floor muscles, which are a group of muscles that support the pelvic organs (bladder, uterus, and rectum) and play a vital role in various bodily functions.

Here’s what a pelvic floor physical therapist does:

1. Assessment:
   • They start by conducting a thorough assessment of the patient’s pelvic floor function.
   • This may include a detailed medical history, physical examination, and often the use of specialized tools to evaluate muscle tone, strength, and coordination.
2. Diagnosis:
   • Based on the assessment, the therapist diagnoses pelvic floor issues.
   • This can include muscle weakness, hypertonicity (excessive muscle tension), incoordination, or dysfunction related to bowel or bladder problems.
3. Treatment Planning:
   • After diagnosis, the therapist develops an individualized treatment plan tailored to the patient’s specific needs and goals.
   • This plan may include exercises, lifestyle modifications, and other interventions.
4. Education:
   • Pelvic floor physical therapists educate patients about the anatomy and function of the pelvic floor, as well as how various factors like posture, diet, and hydration can impact pelvic health.

Here are other specific treatments pelvic floor therapist perform:

1. Pelvic Floor Exercises:
   • They teach patients exercises to strengthen or relax the pelvic floor muscles, depending on the diagnosis.
   • These exercises often include Kegels, but can also involve relaxation techniques and coordination exercises.
2. Manual Therapy:
   • In some cases, the therapist may use hands-on techniques to release muscle tension, improve mobility, and address trigger points in the pelvic floor muscles.
3. Behavioral Strategies:
   • They may offer guidance on behavioral strategies to manage symptoms, such as bladder or bowel training, dietary changes, and lifestyle modifications.
4. Pain Management:
   • For patients experiencing pelvic pain conditions, pelvic floor physical therapists can provide pain management techniques, including manual therapy, stretching, and relaxation exercises.
5. Postpartum and Pregnancy Care:
   • Pelvic floor physical therapists often work with pregnant and postpartum individuals to address issues related to childbirth, such as pelvic pain, incontinence, and pelvic organ prolapse.
6. Follow-up and Progress Monitoring:
   • Throughout the treatment process, the therapist monitors the patient’s progress and adjusts the treatment plan as needed to achieve the best outcomes.

Pelvic floor physical therapy is valuable for both men and women who experience pelvic floor issues, such as incontinence, pelvic pain, and sexual dysfunction. It can significantly improve quality of life and help individuals regain control and confidence in their pelvic health.

Treatment options for pelvic floor therapy

Pelvic floor physical therapy is valuable for both men and women who experience pelvic floor issues, such as incontinence, pelvic pain, and sexual dysfunction. It can significantly improve quality of life and help individuals regain control and confidence in their pelvic health.

At PhysioFit of NC, we have the expert team in pelvic floor physical therapy to help you to the fullest.

We provide a comprehensive treatment approach through our Women’s Health Program.  This includes manual therapy and exercises to improve conditions related to the pelvic floor muscles.

Don’t hesitate to contact us today so we can help you!