Women and men of all ages can benefit from pelvic floor physical therapy. A few common conditions that physical therapists (PTs) can treat are urinary incontinence, bowel incontinence, pelvic organ prolapse, pelvic pain, post-partum care, and painful intercourse. Occasionally, pelvic floor dysfunction can lead to or contribute to low back pain, hip pain, and other common musculoskeletal problems. 

Urinary incontinence is one of the most common diagnoses that pelvic floor PTs treat. Incontinence can be stress-induced or urge-induced. Coughing, sneezing, laughing, and jumping are all activities that increase intra-abdominal pressure, placing increased demands on the muscles of the pelvic floor. When those muscles are weak or not functioning properly, leakage can occur. 

Urge incontinence, commonly referred to as “overactive bladder,” can be triggered by running water, cold weather, or even seeing a bathroom. Just because both types of urinary incontinence are very common, especially among women, does not mean that incontinence is normal or that you should have to live with it. Pelvic floor physical therapy evaluation and treatment are proven to be effective and beneficial.

A pelvic floor PT will not only address the muscles and function of the pelvic floor, she will also perform a general musculoskeletal examination to address other muscles and tissues that might be involved. The body is a dynamic and fluid system with numerous pieces that work together. The benefit of seeking evaluation from a pelvic floor PT is the comprehensive assessment, treatment, and care that you will receive to help decrease pain and improve overall function.

What is Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy?
Physical therapy is the treatment of movement dysfunction, physical disability, and pain through the use of exercise, manual treatment, modalities, and education. 

Pelvic floor PTs are musculoskeletal experts in areas associated with the pelvis: the sacrum, sacroiliac joints, and the coccyx. This includes the vulvar and vaginal, penile and scrotum, and colorectal regions. The pelvic floor is comprised of muscle fibers that support the pelvic organs: bladder, uterus (in females), intestines, and rectum. Pelvic floor PTs receive specialized training in these areas, as well as advanced education of the gastrointestinal, reproductive, orthopedic, and neurological systems, in order to treat patients in a more comprehensive manner.

Put an end to your worry, and improve your quality of life. Contact Columbus Regional Health’s Rehabilitation Services and schedule an appointment with one of our expert pelvic floor PTs.