Conditions treated through pelvic floor rehab
Do you suffer from any of the following conditions? People often suffer from these symptoms intermittently; however, it is not normal for these symptoms to persist beyond the occasional occurrence.
- Pelvic pain near the lower abdomen, perineum (general area near the genitals), labia, testicles, penis, low back, hips, and groin regions
- Urinary leakages related to lifting, walking, or associated with strong urgency to rush to the bathroom. Can be related to post prostate removal, postpartum, or idiopathic (unknown cause).
- Fecal urgency, incontinence, or leakages
- Pain with intercourse or erectile dysfunction
What is the pelvic floor?
The pelvic floor is a common term used to describe the muscles, ligaments, bones, and tendons that create the bowl of the pelvis. This area serves to funciton support for back, SI joint, hips, and abdominal contents. Other functions include the storage and release of bowel and bladder, as well as sexual function.
What to expect with pelvic floor physical therapy?
Bruce Neff, PT, DPT has certifications through Herman and Wallace for both female and male anatomy assessments of impairments, muscle function, and dysfunctions appropriate for treatment to restore normal function and quality of life. Evaluation includes an extensive subjective history intake, as well as habits for diet, bowel, bladder, and sexual functions at the comfort levels of each patient. Objective measures include orthopedic assessments of back, hips, and pelvis as well as potential assessments that include the perineum.
External and internal assessments of the perineum are not required and only occur after extensive education about procedures, anatomy and physiology, and written and verbal consent of the patient. Chaperones can be provided at patient requests and is highly encouraged to bring a trusted persons at your comfort level.
What types of interventions will be performed?
Following the evaluation interventions include exercise, counseling on dietary considerations, ergonomics, and interprofessional referrals with urology and primary care physicians. Other treatments can include manual therapies to release tight muscles, improve joint mobility, and modalities such as dry needling, shockwave therapy, and biofeedback to restore function.
The goal?
The goal for all physical therapy is to restore function to the best of the patient’s ability, and self-interventions to manage your own body long-term. Through several sessions if needed education about strategies, compensations, and adaptations are provided to manage each patient’s specific diagnosis and presentation.
