Understanding Pelvic Floor Physiotherapy and Its Benefits

The pelvic floor is a group of muscles located in the pelvic region. These muscles provide support for the bladder, rectum, and the uterus and vagina in women. Pelvic floor physical therapy (PFPT) is a form of treatment that can help to strengthen these muscles and improve their function. PFPT is a safe and effective way to address issues related to pelvic floor dysfunction, such as urinary or fecal incontinence, pelvic organ prolapse, or pelvic pain.

What Is Pelvic Floor Physiotherapy?

Pelvic floor physical therapy is a type of therapy that focuses on the muscles of the pelvic floor. It involves a combination of education, behavioral modification, manual therapy, and exercise. The goal of PFPT is to strengthen the muscles of the pelvic floor, improve their coordination, and reduce pain.

Pelvic floor physiotherapy in Edmonton therapists are specially trained to assess and treat issues related to the pelvic floor. During an initial evaluation, the therapist will ask questions to understand the patient’s medical history and current symptoms. They will then perform an external and internal physical examination of the pelvic floor muscles. Based on their findings, the therapist will develop a treatment plan tailored to the individual's needs.

What Are the Benefits of Pelvic Floor Physiotherapy?

There are many benefits to pelvic floor physical therapy. It can help to improve the strength, coordination, and flexibility of the pelvic floor muscles. By addressing any muscle imbalances or dysfunction, PFPT can also reduce pain, as well as the risk of urinary or fecal incontinence. Furthermore, PFPT can help to treat or prevent pelvic organ prolapse.

Pelvic floor physical therapy can also have a positive effect on a person's mental well-being. The treatment can help to reduce feelings of embarrassment or anxiety associated with pelvic floor dysfunction. It can also help to reduce stress, which can have a positive impact on overall health.

How Can Pelvic Floor Physiotherapy Help with Pain?

Pelvic floor physical therapy can be effective in treating pelvic pain. It can help to reduce tension in the pelvic floor muscles, which can reduce pain and prevent it from becoming chronic. PFPT can also help to reduce inflammation and improve the patient’s range of motion, which can help to reduce pain.

Pelvic floor physical therapy can also help to identify any underlying conditions or causes of pelvic pain. For example, the therapist may look for muscle imbalances, postural dysfunction, or other conditions that may be contributing to the pain. By identifying and addressing the underlying causes, PFPT can help to reduce pain and improve function.

What Are the Exercises Used in Pelvic Floor Physiotherapy?

Pelvic floor physical therapy typically involves a combination of exercises and manual therapy. The exercises used in PFPT are designed to strengthen and improve the coordination of the pelvic floor muscles. They can also help to improve flexibility and reduce tension in the pelvic floor.

Common exercises used in PFPT include pelvic tilts, pelvic floor contractions, and hip bridges. These exercises can be performed at home to help maintain the improvements made in therapy.

Conclusion

Pelvic floor physical therapy is an effective way to address issues related to pelvic floor dysfunction. It can help to strengthen and improve the coordination of the pelvic floor muscles, reduce pain, and improve mental well-being. PFPT can also help to identify and address any underlying causes of pelvic pain. By combining exercises and manual therapy, PFPT can help to improve the functioning of the pelvic floor muscles and reduce symptoms associated with pelvic floor dysfunction.