Pelvic rehabilitation is a specialty type of physical therapy that is used to treat conditions of the pelvic region. These are the muscles and organs between one's belly button and thighs, and can present symptoms through problems with the bowels, bladder, or reproductive organs.
Our specially-trained physical therapists at Catholic Health are committed to treating issues related to pelvic pain and incontinence in a way that makes patients feel safe and comfortable. We are experts in a variety of techniques that can offer pain relief or help manage a condition. Pelvic rehabilitation physical therapy provides patients the chance to take back control of their bodies, when they often feel as though that is what's been lost.
Conditions We Treat
The hammock-shaped muscles of the pelvic floor function to support our trunk, pelvis, and pelvic organs. Any incoordination between these muscles and the organs they support can cause pelvic floor dysfunction, which can include any of the following:
- Bladder conditions
- Bowel conditions
- Pre- and postpartum rehabilitation
- Pelvic organ prolapse
- Pelvic pain
- Sexual dysfunction
- Urinary incontinence
- Bowel incontinence
- Post-prostatectomy symptoms
Incontinence
A loss in ability to control your bladder, or incontinence, is more common than most patients would think, though it is more prevalent in women. Pelvic rehabilitation physical therapy essentially trains the muscles of the pelvic floor, with the ability to cure or improve most reported cases of incontinence.
Pregnancy and Postpartum Physical Therapy
The services offered by our pregnancy and postpartum physical therapy program can help make life more enjoyable for expectant or new mothers. As experts in treating the musculoskeletal system, we are able to relieve strain on your body while addressing the causes of pain and discomfort during pregnancy and after delivery.
Physical Therapy Techniques
Symptoms of pelvic floor dysfunction should never be left ignored or untreated. Our physical therapists use a multi-disciplined approach to assess patients, so we can discover where the problem lies for each individual. Often times, just a few physical therapy sessions are able to provide significant relief.
Physical therapy for pelvic rehabilitation may include:
- Both internal and external treatments, utilized as appropriate
- Strengthening and stretching exercises
- Using biofeedback to regain control of the pelvic floor muscles
- Electrical stimulation
- Manual techniques, including myofascial release, craniosacral therapy, visceral manipulation, trigger point release, and joint mobilization
- Musculoskeletal services