Physical Therapy for Pelvic Floor Dysfunction
If you’ve ever had to run to the bathroom multiple times a day, or if you struggle with constipation, find yourself leaking urine, or feel pain in your pelvis or back, you may be experiencing or have experienced pelvic floor dysfunction.
Pelvic floor dysfunction is a common problem, often introduced by some sort of trauma to the pelvis or from pregnancy or childbirth. It may also arise from surgical complications, a medical condition such as a chronic UTI, or even crop up due to stress and anxiety. Whatever the trigger, at Evolution Physical Therapy, our specialists know how to proactively assess, diagnose, and treat our patients, all while welcoming them into our facilities and making them feel comforted and supported. Even if you’re unsure whether you have a pelvic condition such as pelvic floor dysfunction will help you through the appropriate diagnosis and work with you on the most fitting therapy.
How Do You Know If You Have Pelvic Floor Dysfunction?
The best way to find out if you have pelvic floor dysfunction is to get medical attention right away. Rather than search online for your pelvic floor dysfunction symptoms, it’s important to see your doctor who can ask you questions about what you’re actually experiencing instead.
Your doctor may ask you how often you urinate or defecate throughout the day, if you’re able to fully empty your bladder, make it to the bathroom on time, or if you frequently feel the need to strain while on the toilet. They might also ask if urination, bowel movements, or sexual intimacy is painful.
Then, your doctor or another specialist such as a physical therapist, should physically examine you to see if your pelvic floor muscles are functioning normally. After these steps are taken, you should be able to receive a diagnosis of pelvic floor dysfunction if your signs and symptoms meet the criteria.
Causes of Pelvic Floor Dysfunction
It can be difficult to determine the cause of pelvic floor dysfunction because there are so many factors that may cause it. However, there are certainly identifiable triggers and risk factors. These factors include:
- Effects from surgery
- Aging
- Pregnancy and childbirth
- Chronic UTIs
- Injuries to the pelvis or pelvic region
- Excess weight
- Urinary frequency or straining
Can Pelvic Floor Dysfunction Go Away on its own?
It’s highly unlikely that pelvic floor dysfunction will go away on its own. . In fact, if it’s left untreated, it’s more likely that the condition could worsen over time, causing more pain and increased symptoms. It’s best to consult with your doctor or physical therapist for advice regarding your specific treatment plan so that you can experience improvement in your symptoms instead of regression.
Can a Physical Therapist Treat Pelvic Floor Dysfunction?
Physical therapists are the professionals we can rely on when it comes to the functioning muscles, joints, and nerves of the human body. Not only can they help to treat pelvic floor dysfunction, but they can truly be the missing link in your journey to relief and wellness. From educating their patients about their pelvic anatomy to showing them practical ways to strengthen and relax their muscles in a host of different ways, physical therapists can play a tremendous role in improving their patient’s health.
Physical Therapy Treatments for Pelvic Floor Dysfunction
Physical therapy for pelvic floor dysfunction has proven to be extremely effective. Here is a list of some of the possible treatments pelvic floor physical therapists can implement for their patients.
- Stretching
- Manual therapy
- Biofeedback therapy
- Electrical stimulation
- Relaxation techniques
Resolving Pain from Pelvic Floor Dysfunction
Despite how you may feel in the moment, it is possible to resolve your pain from pelvic floor dysfunction. But it may take some time, consistency, and effort before you start to see improvement. As long as you stay proactive at home just like you do in your physical therapy sessions, you should begin to see a major difference in your level of pain. Implementing techniques into your daily routine such as deep breathing exercises and stretching will help to keep your discomfort at bay.
When to see a Physical Therapist for Pelvic Floor Dysfunction
If you are having pain in the pelvis region, or you suspect you may have pelvic floor dysfunction, it’s best to set up an appointment with a licensed physical therapist. At Evolution Physical Therapy, we have locations in California, Colorado, Connecticut, and Long Island, with specialist PT providers that offer a range of physical therapy services and help to provide you with the treatment, education, and additional support you need on your road to recovery. Reach out to us today, by calling us to set up an appointment at a location near you, or filling out our Request an Appointment form.
