For many people suffering from unresolved lower back or hip pain, it is not unusual to overlook weakened pelvic floor muscles. These muscles work to support the bowel, bladder, and uterus.
When the muscles undergo stress from pregnancy, delivery, or an injury, uncomfortable and unfortunate symptoms can arise— including those usually attributed to other issues.
Thankfully, there is an effective treatment to relieve ongoing concerns. Due to the sensitivity around the topic of the pelvic floor, many are unaware of the options available or are nervous to reach out for help. For this reason, we are offering a comprehensive look at pelvic floor physio and what is involved.
What is Pelvic Floor Physio?
Pelvic floor physio is a form of physiotherapy focusing on the muscles, ligaments, tendons, joints, and nerves in and around the pelvic area. This therapy is for all genders and may be beneficial when healing post-surgery or after an injury, when a medical condition is present, or during the surrounding time of pregnancy.
Most people report significantly improving their quality of life by strengthening their pelvic floor muscles. Some of the common symptoms or issues outside of an event precipitating the need that could indicate weakened pelvic floor muscles include:
- Incontinence
- Urinary or rectal pain
- Unusual bowel or bladder movements
- Painful sex
- Constipation
- Hip or back pain
- Prolapse
- Post-partum and pregnancy-related issues
- Testicular pain
- And more
What Should I Expect in My Consultation?
Pelvic floor physiotherapists undergo specific training to handle the delicate nature of pelvic healthcare. These trained professionals have their patient’s best interests in mind and work to ensure they are comfortable and feel respected throughout their treatment.
As with any medical appointment, your consultation will begin with a health history review to identify if you are a candidate for pelvic floor physio. The physiotherapist performs a physical internal and external examination in addition to asking you a series of identifying questions.
Internal examinations include vaginal and rectal exams, depending on the patient’s condition. While internal vaginal or rectal examinations are unique to pelvic floor physio, they can provide additional details that may help in other areas of your health.
After conducting the entire consultation, the physiotherapist will create a focused plan to address the patient’s needs. The plan may involve stretching or applying resistance to the target area and biofeedback to loosen tightness or strengthen pelvic muscles.
While not everyone is comfortable with these procedures, our therapists are compassionate, professional, and respectful and will only ever proceed with your consent.
What Should I Wear to My Pelvic Floor Physio Session?
Wearing loose comfortable clothing to your pelvic floor physio is best or bring a pair of athletic shorts with you. If your physiotherapy involves an internal treatment, you may need to disrobe from the waist down, but they provide you with a robe. In most cases, your physiotherapist will direct you on what you need to wear to each appointment.
It is recommended you wash thoroughly and go to the bathroom prior to your appointment as the therapist may apply direct pressure on your bladder and bowels.
Improve Your Pelvic Floor Health Today!
If you are ready to correct underlying issues leading to discomfort and want to strengthen your pelvic floor, trust My Physio Sports & Rehab Centre in Woodbridge, ON. Our therapists have extensive training and experience in generalized pelvic health or specialized needs like pre and post-pregnancy. We will treat you with the utmost respect and work toward the common goal of improving your quality of life.
Call us at (905) 850-6683, contact us here, or book your appointment online.