Pelvic Pain

Pelvic pain can occur for many reasons. One typical cause is what is called a hypertonus dysfunction or an unusual tightening of the pelvic floor muscles. This is common after a long delivery and scar tissue formation from a healing episiotomy. It can also occur from sexual abuse or when the muscles tighten to prevent the “falling out” sensation that occurs with the prolapse of the internal organs. The primary symptom is pain, but it can occur in the back, perivaginal area, lower abdomen, or thighs.

THE PURPOSE OF PHYSICAL THERAPY

Physical therapy can help to eliminate or manage pelvic pain while restoring quality of life. This is possible through a comprehensive approach to the evaluation and treatment of the pelvic floor.

Common Pelvic Floor Dysfunctions:

Pelvic Floor Treatment May Include:

In a private quiet room, each patient will have an individual evaluation that will last approximately one hour. If the patient feels more comfortable with another person in the room, we always offer a second person. The initial evaluations includes an internal exam if the patient is comfortable in order to properly assess the patient’s musculature and symptoms.

Pregnancy, Postpartum & Menopause

Physical Therapy is no longer solely used for joint problems: it is also a safe, proven and widely prescribed treatment for pregnancy, new mothers and menopausal women. Therapists who specialize in Women’s Health promote a healthier, less stressful, more comfortable pregnancy with easier labor, a quicker recovery and less likelihood of postpartum pain or incontinence.

Pregnancy Common Symptoms

• Back, hip & pubic pain
• Carpal tunnel or other musculoskeletal issues
• Decreased control of bowel/bladder
• Diastasis recti
• Sciatica (leg pain and numbness)
• Pelvic pressure
• Postural changes

Your body is gaining weight which changes your posture and how you walk. Your hormones are relaxing the joints and ligaments throughout your body. We can treat or prevent these issues during pregnancy with some simple self-care strategies and hands-on techniques.

Menopause Common Symptoms:

• Hormonal changes
• Osteoporosis
• Pain with intercourse
• Pelvic organ prolapse
• Tissue thinning
• Urinary/fecal incontinence

Physical therapy can evaluate and address the physical issues affecting you. Some of the techniques utilized are postural awareness education, stretching and strengthening programs, soft tissue mobilization/myofascial release (massage), breathing exercises, bladder education and pelvic floor strengthening. We can also assist you in implementing an exercise regimen that is easy and safe regardless of level of fitness. All of these strategies are performed in concurrence with your OB/GYN’s care.

Urinary Incontinence

It can be embarrassing but it doesn’t have to be part of your life. Do you have to change pads every couple hours? Do you worry about going out because you need to know where the closest bathroom is? Do you always carry a change of clothes with you? Do you not travel or exercise because of fear of leakage?

Don’t live in fear of urinary leakage! Discuss your symptoms with your doctor and decide if Physical Therapy may be beneficial for you.

There is no “one size fits all” program for treating the many things that contribute to
constipation. Treatments may include: pelvic floor muscle strengthening and relaxation, modalities, biofeedback, manual therapy for pain reduction, behavior modifications, and more.

How Physical Therapy Can Help

In a private quiet room, each patient will have an individual evaluation that will last approximately one hour. If the patient feels more comfortable with another person in the room, we always offer a second person. The initial evaluation includes an internal exam if the patient is comfortable in order to properly assess the patient’s musculature and symptoms.