What is Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy?
Female and Male Pelvic Floor Therapy in Los Angeles
Pelvic floor therapy is a special type of physical therapy that focuses on the pelvic floor muscles, which support the bladder, rectum, and reproductive/other organs. Pelvic floor therapy is beneficial for individuals who are experiencing problems such as urinary or fecal incontinence, pelvic pain, pain during sexual intercourse, pelvic organ prolapse, or other types of pelvic floor dysfunctions such as erectile and ejaculatory dysfunctions.
What should I expect with my pelvic floor physical therapy appointment?
For first-time patients, pelvic floor therapy typically begins with an initial evaluation, which includes an open discussion of symptoms and medical history, as well as a physical examination of the pelvic floor muscles. I want to learn about you, your symptoms, and your goals! Then assessing your movement, testing strength, mobility and coordination is key. Usually, this is in the form of an internal examination, either vaginally or rectally. However, an external examination is also an option. Internal assessments are never mandatory! I may use a variety of techniques, such as biofeedback, manual therapy, and exercise, to help improve the strength, flexibility, and coordination of the pelvic floor muscles. We will discuss the findings and collaborate to create a tailored plan of care for you. Treatment plans may include exercises, education, and establishing healthy pelvic habits. You should finish your appointment feeling more educated, comfortable, and confident regarding your condition and feel secure in your plans/expectations for the future.
During a pelvic floor therapy appointment, patients can expect to:
Discuss their issues, symptoms, and medical history
Undergo a physical examination of the pelvic floor muscles
Receive education about pelvic floor anatomy and function
Learn exercises to strengthen and/or relax the pelvic floor muscles
Practice relaxation and breathing techniques to reduce muscle tension
Receive feedback on muscle coordination using biofeedback technology
Discuss lifestyle modifications, such as changes to diet and fluid intake, to improve bladder and bowel function
Set goals and develop a personalized treatment plan with the therapist.
Perform exercises, practices, and techniques at home
Prepare for the follow-up appointment with questions and reporting progress
Pelvic floor therapy can help improve bladder and bowel function, reduce pain and discomfort, and improve sexual function and overall quality of life.
What conditions or pelvic floor dysfunctions can a pelvic floor physical therapist treat? Here’s a list of common conditions, but not inclusive:
Testicular pain, Scrotal pain
Groin pain, Perineum pain
Penile pain, Vulvar pain (Vulvodynia)
Prostatitis
Pelvic Organ Prolapse (Vaginal, Rectal, Bladder)
Urinary incontinence (bladder incontinence)
Painful sex (dyspareunia)
Post-prostatectomy incontinence
Erectile dysfunction (obtaining, maintaining)
Constipation
Anal incontinence (bowel incontinence)
Pelvic pain, Chronic pelvic pain syndrome
Pudendal neuralgia
Bladder pain (interstitial cystitis)
Tailbone pain (coccydynia)
Abdominal pain, strain
Ejaculation pain, ejaculatory dysfunctions
Rectal pain, Proctalgia fugax
Pain with bowel movements or urination, hemorrhoids, anal fissures