What is pelvic physical therapy?

Pelvic physical therapy is a specialty that focuses on the pelvic floor and surrounding structures to address pelvic health problems. These problems can involve bowel and bladder function, pain, and sexual health. Pelvic PTs focus on the mechanical aspects of the pelvic floor and its functions then utilize specialized knowledge and skills to improve people’s lives.

The pelvic floor has multiple functions:

• Sphincteric control: keeps things in, let’s things out

• Support: supports your abdominal contents

• Sump pump: helps circulate blood and lymphatic fluid through the pelvic and to the rest of the body

• Sexual: the pelvic floor is deeply involved with the events of orgasm, as well as supporting and maintain erectile tissues

• Stability: helps stabilize the structures of the pelvis, hips, and low back

  
  

That is a lot of roles for one muscle group! Because it does so many things, when problems arise affecting the pelvic floor, many possible dysfunctions can occur. Similarly, when problems arise in these areas, the pelvic floor should be considered.

A pelvic physical therapist looks at these dysfunctions and uses non-surgical techniques such as manual therapy, exercise, stretching, behavioral strategies, modalities, education, and functional re-training.

Pelvic physical therapy is NOT a one-size fits all approach. It is sadly all too common to hear my clients with urinary dysfunction say, “my doctor told me to do some kegels”. Most of the time, no examination has been done that would ensure such an exercise is appropriate or helpful. Strengthening can be and often is a crucial component of a pelvic rehab program, but if for example, someone has very tight and contracted pelvic floor muscles, strengthening often just worsens their symptoms with no appreciable benefit.

A good pelvic therapist will make sure you are listened to, that your treatment is tailored to your specific needs, and that you are treated holistically – taking your whole person into account. This ethos is at the core of what Unbound Physio is all about.

Unbound Physio PLLC provides one-on-one pelvic health, balance, and orthopedic physical therapy in West Hartford and the Greater Hartford area.