What is pelvic health physical therapy?

Pelvic floor physical therapy is a treatment approach that utilises the principles of physical therapy to provide a structured, effective, and safe reconditioning of the pelvic floor muscles. These muscles are important for both males and females, the goal of this treatment is to improve the strength and function of the muscles to alleviate pain, weakness, and dysfunction.

The therapist may either stretch the muscles if they are short or apply resistance to improve strength if they are weak and dysfunctional.

Who requires pelvic floor therapy?

This type of therapy is recommended as the first treatment option for disorders of the pelvic region. Exercises can be given to strengthen the floor and enhance bladder and bowel control. This dysfunction may result from aging, illness, childbirth, surgery, or other conditions.

Patients are referred for pelvic floor therapy when they have incontinence, chronic pelvic pain, painful intercourse, and difficulty with bowel movements or urination. Women may see pelvic floor therapists for treatment of endometriosis or vaginismus while men may be treated for premature ejaculation and painful ejaculation.

Pelvic floor dysfunction:

When your pelvic floor muscles can’t relax or work together, you may experience:

· Constipation

· Peeing frequently

· Trouble controlling bowel or urinary tract movements

· Pain during sex in women

· Erectile dysfunction in men

Things that may trigger this dysfunction include:

· Pelvic surgery

· Aging

· Pregnancy

· Weight

· Overuse of pelvic muscle

· Injuries to pelvic area

What are the treatment options?

There are various treatment options that the patient may be given by the physiotherapist. Some techniques and exercises include:

· Trigger point therapy

· Kegels

· Electrical stimulation

· Biofeedback for either relaxation or strengthening

· Education in self-management and prevention

· Coordination exercises

How Do I Book An Appointment?

We’re taking the health of our clients, members and staff very seriously and our preference would be for you to call to book an appointment so that we can make sure to explain our approach to keeping you safe. Call us at (02) 9793 3119