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Pelvic floor physical therapy focuses on the muscles, tissues, and organs specifically in the pelvic area, which include the bladder and bowel. It helps with problems like pelvic pain, urinary or bowel issues, and discomfort during sex.

Orthopedic physical therapy, on the other hand, deals with muscles and joints in other parts of the body, like the arms, legs, and back, to help with pain, stiffness, and injuries in those areas.

Pelvic floor physical therapy applies to individuals with a range of symptoms. Some of the most common ones we see are:

Pelvic Pain: Chronic pelvic pain, pain during intercourse (dyspareunia), tailbone pain, or pain in the pelvic region with movement, sitting, or pressure.

Urinary Symptoms: Urinary incontinence (leakage of urine), urinary urgency or frequency, difficulty emptying the bladder, or nocturia (excessive nighttime urination).

Bowel Symptoms: Fecal incontinence (involuntary leakage of stool or gas), constipation, rectal pain/spasms, or difficulty with bowel movements.

Pregnancy and Postpartum: Pelvic floor physical therapy can help prepare the pelvic floor for childbirth and address postpartum issues such as pelvic organ prolapse, perineal pain, or diastasis recti.

Pelvic Organ Prolapse: Descending or bulging of pelvic organs (such as the bladder, uterus, or rectum) into the vaginal canal.

Male Pelvic Conditions: Chronic pelvic pain in men, chronic prostatitis, and post-prostatectomy

On your first visit, your pelvic floor physical therapist will ask you questions about your health and any concerns you have, such as pain or trouble with urination or bowel movements. Your therapist may check how strong your pelvic muscles are and if they’re working properly by feeling around your pelvic area. If you feel comfortable, she may also perform an internal exam with a gloved finger vaginally or rectally to assess the internal muscles in order to create the right treatment plan for you.

Just like other therapies, it takes time and consistency to notice improvement. Healing time varies for each person. Some people might start feeling better after a few sessions, while others might need more time. It depends on how severe your symptoms are and how well you stick to your treatment plan.

Typically, we see our patients 1-2 times per week in order to make the most optimal recovery. Your therapist will work with you to create a plan that fits your needs and that helps you feel better as soon as possible!