Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy: What To Expect
Sep 13, 2023
Has your doctor recommended pelvic floor physical therapy? If you experience any of the common symptoms, such as urinary incontinence, constipation, or pain in the pelvic area, you may have a condition that could be improved by pelvic floor physical therapy. The recommendation for this type of therapy usually follows a diagnosis by a doctor
If you’re in need of pelvic floor physical therapy, you are probably wondering what to expect. It’s normal to be unsure or nervous about the prospect of physical therapy focused on such a sensitive area of the body, but the results are worthwhile. After completing pelvic floor PT, patients experience relief of pain and other negative symptoms of pelvic floor conditions.
The first visit to a pelvic floor physical therapist is usually just a consultation. You will fill out paperwork as a new patient, including a thorough medical history. Your therapist will ask you questions about your condition and symptoms to get an idea of the issues you are directly experiencing. They may also ask you about specific items on your medical history form as they may pertain to your current condition and treatment.
A physical examination may be needed in order to further understand the true issue causing the symptoms. Exams are handled discreetly with the comfort of the patient being of utmost importance. The knowledge gained from a physical exam can be crucial for a physical therapist to develop an effective course of treatment.
Some initial physical therapy strategies may be tried during your first appointment, in order to give you an idea of what to expect and to provide some initial relief of your symptoms, if possible. Your physical therapist will discuss with you the recommended course of treatment for your condition going forward.
After the initial consultation, regular therapy appointments will begin. Your pelvic floor therapy may include manual techniques such as trigger point release, visceral mobilization, connective tissue release, scar tissue release, stretches, and other exercises. Some therapies are external, involving stretching, tightening, and relaxing muscles. Other therapies may be performed internally, using methods to relieve internal pain and pressure. Redcord suspension therapy has proven beneficial in pelvic floor conditions as well.
You may be given homework consisting of exercises or lifestyle changes that your physical therapist will recommend that you perform between in-person sessions. It is important to perform these exercises and follow your physical therapists instructions on a daily basis to achieve greater results.
If you’re wondering what to expect when it comes to pelvic floor therapy at Manhattan Physical Therapy, you can rest assured that your privacy and comfort will be our top priority. We understand that pelvic floor therapy can be a sensitive subject for some patients, and we’ll do everything in our power to make you feel as comfortable as possible.
We believe in the benefits of this type of therapy. It can relieve your pain and symptoms and perhaps even help you to avoid surgery or other more invasive means to correct pelvic floor issues. Manhattan Physical Therapy also incorporates Redcord suspension therapy for pelvic floor patients, as it can accelerate recovery.
Please bring us your questions and concerns so that we can address them and help you to feel confident about your treatment.
Call (212) 213-3480 or contact us to schedule a consultation today. We look forward to working with you to provide relief for your pain and other symptoms.