Why You Should See A Pelvic Floor Physiotherapist
Pelvic floor physiotherapy involves targeting the muscles, nerves, ligaments, connective tissue, lymphatic system and joints inside and around the pelvic girdle. The focus of these specially trained physiotherapists is to maintain or regain mobility and function in the pelvic floor.
A lot of people, with a wide range of conditions may find great benefit from seeing a pelvic floor physio.
This article will show you Why You Should See A Pelvic Floor Physiotherapist.
A Review of Anatomy
The pelvic floor is often overlooked, and many patients don’t realize what exactly is going on in the pelvis. Since the pelvis is somewhat hidden from view people tend to forget it can be consciously controlled and trained, similar to any other muscles throughout the body.
As you can see in the image below, there are various bones and joints, and a group of muscles forming a floor to your pelvis. These are the muscles targeted through a pelvic floor physiotherapist.
The pelvic floor has a few main roles including supporting the abdominal and pelvic tissues and organs, controlling continence of urine and feces, as well as allowing for voiding, defecation, sexual activity and childbirth. To review the basics of pelvic floor anatomy, please click here.
Conditions Benefited by Pelvic Floor Physiotherapy
Pelvic floor dysfunction is defined as the abnormal function caused by structural abnormalities, underlying disease or physical trauma. Conditions which may benefit from seeing a pelvic floor physiotherapist include:
- Urinary incontinence [1]
- Fecal incontinence
- Pelvic organ prolapse
- Overactive bladder [2]
- Sexual dysfunction
- Diastasis recti abdominis
- Pelvic girdle pain
- Chronic pelvic pain
- Hormonal conditions such as PCOS, endometriosis, fibroids, menopause [3]
- Pre- and post pregnancy
- Low Back Pain
What Do Pelvic Floor Physiotherapists Do?
Your pelvic floor physiotherapist will use internal and external therapies such as myofascial release, connective tissue manipulation, joint and scar tissue mobilization [1]. Manual therapy uses palpation to help strengthen weakened tissues and lengthen tightened tissues to provide relief from pain and optimize function.
Many of the conditions listed above have research showing pelvic floor physiotherapy has a role to play in treatment. Book in today for a consultation with our pelvic floor physiotherapist.
Summary
Pelvic floor dysfunction affects many women (and men), and a pelvic floor physiotherapist may be the person best suited to help. Assessment and treatment revolve around the muscles, joints and connective tissues deep within the pelvis. Common ailments such as incontinence, pain, and post-pregnancy changes may be alleviated through pelvic floor physiotherapy.
Interested in learning more?
Learn more about Pelvic Floor Physiotherapy!
Learn More About Pelvic Floor Physiotherapy
About the Author - Sonia Gashgarian
Sonia Gashgarian is a registered physiotherapist who graduated with a Master of Science in Physical Therapy from the University of Toronto. Prior to this she completed her Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology with Honours from the University of Waterloo. Sonia has completed courses in sports taping and basic kinesio-taping, as well as the McKenzie Method of Mechanical Diagnosis and Therapy and Mulligan Concept. She also has her APTEI Acupuncture and Dry Needling Certification.
Sonia uses a variety of treatment techniques to help clients feel better and return to their regular activities as soon as possible. Her individualized treatments may include the following: education, joint mobilizations, exercise prescription, soft tissue release, trigger point release, taping, acupuncture and dry needling, cupping, and Gua Sha.
To book in please call us at (519) 442-2206 or click here.