Pelvic Floor Physio
What is The
Pelvic Floor?
The pelvic floor refers to the group of muscles in the base of the pelvis. They form the “floor” of your pelvis! These muscles play a crucial role in carrying out various functions, including:
- Supporting the pelvic organs – acts as a floor to keep the pelvic organs (uterus, intestines, and bladder) inside the pelvis
- Maintaining continence – prevents urine and/or stool leakage
- Sexual function – allow/prevent penetration, support production of an erection
- Member of the “core” – works with muscles in the back, the abs, and the diaphragm to maintain a strong core/center region
What is
Pelvic Floor Physio?
Pelvic floor physiotherapy is a specialized field within physical therapy that focuses on treating symptoms associated with the structures in and around the pelvis. The primary aim of this branch of physical therapy is to address pelvic health conditions related to the urinary, anorectal and reproductive systems.
Although assessing and treating the structures around the pelvis is a big focus of this branch of physical therapy, it is not the only focus. The structures in our body are all connected and it is important that we take everything into account. Studies have shown that pain in the jaw can be linked to pelvic floor dysfunctions! Your pelvic floor physiotherapist will do a full body assessment to see what could be contributing to specifically to your symptoms.
Common Conditions We Treat
Some conditions that can be effectively treated with pelvic floor physiotherapy include, but are not limited to:
Urinary System:
- Urinary incontinence/leakage
- Urinary urgency
- Urinary frequency
- Incomplete urine voiding
- Post void residual
Reproductive System:
- Pregnancy & postpartum periods
- Vaginismus (ie. vaginal pain)
- Vestibulodynia (ie. pain at the vaginal entrance)
- Dyspareunia (ie. pain with intercourse)
- Endometriosis
- Pelvic organ prolapse
- Premature ejaculation
- Chronic non-bacterial prostatitis
- Erectile dysfunction
- Pre- or post-op prostatectomy
Anorectal System:
- Stool leakage
- Chronic anal fissure
- Incomplete stool evacuation
- Chronic constipation
- Anorectal pain/spasms (ie. proctalgia fugax)
Pain:
- Pubic symphysis pain
- Coccydynia (ie. pain at the tailbone)
- Bladder pain (ie. interstitial cystitis)
- Pudendal neuralgia
Tissue Around the Pelvis:
- Diastasis rectus abdominis
- Lower back pain
- Abdominal pain
Common Symptoms We Treat
Some common symptoms that can be effectively treated with pelvic floor physiotherapy include, but are not limited to:
- Urine leakage (any amount – big or small!)
- Pressure sensation at the vagina or anus
- Trouble getting to the toilet on time
- Going to the washroom often
- Pain with intercourse
- Sensation of not feeling empty after going to the bathroom
- Pain anywhere in the pelvis
- Pain/sensitivity around a C-section or vaginal scar
- Not feeling “back to normal” when going back to physical activity after pregnancy
How can Pelvic Floor Physio Help?
The goal of pelvic floor physiotherapy is to restore function in the pelvic area. The connective tissue, musculoskeletal and nervous systems will all be addressed to have a comprehensive treatment approach.
Several techniques can be implemented to achieve this including breath work, relaxation techniques, stretching, release of the muscles & connective tissue around the pelvic region, exercise prescription and biofeedback as necessary. Addressing pelvic floor muscle strength, relaxation and coordination may also be relevant.
What to Expect at your First Appointment
During your first visit, you will have a discussion with your physiotherapist regarding your health history and history of symptoms.
Your physiotherapist will then complete a physical assessment; including an assessment of your lower back, abdominals, hips, and pelvic floor muscles.
Together you will discuss the findings and treatment plan for your specific needs, to ensure the right approach for your care.
You will leave your appointment with an individualized exercise program prescription.
Frequently Asked Questions
If your insurance covers physiotherapy, then it will cover pelvic floor therapy! Pelvic floor rehab is a branch of physiotherapy and is covered just like any other kind of physical therapy treatment.
We encourage people to come to their appointment wearing whatever clothes they are most comfortable in! No specific articles of clothing are required.
No – a referral is not necessary to be seen in pelvic floor physiotherapy!
We begin by assessing the muscle function and tissue externally by simply observing the skin. With patient consent, your physiotherapist (with a gloved and well lubricated finger) may also assess the musculature internally via the front and/or back passages of the pelvis. This is only part of the assessment and is only performed if the patient is comfortable with the exam and gives consent. This exam is helpful for your therapist to understand how you use your pelvic floor muscles (contraction, relaxation, coordination, etc) and assess for tension or tenderness. It is a useful way to understand how to best help the patient and steer treatment.
No, definitely not! The internal exam is a helpful piece for your physical therapist to understand what could be contributing to your symptoms however, no internal exam is performed without patient consent and we will always work within patient comfort zones!
Yes – all of our therapists are licensed. You will receive a receipt at the end of your appointments that you can submit to your insurance provider or that can be saved for income taxes.
At Motiva Santé, we can treat anyone experiencing pelvic health conditions over the age of 5 years old (male, female, transgender folk)! Whatever symptoms you are experiencing, we are here to help!
Still wondering if we can help?
Give us a call at 514-819-1015 or email us for more information!
