Pelvic floor physiotherapy aims to rehabilitate the all-important muscles lining your pelvic floor. These are the muscles you use whenever you control an urge to urinate or defecate
PELVIC FLOOR PHYSIOTHERAPY
Pelvic floor physiotherapy assesses and treats dysfunctions of the pelvic floor. This may include weakness and/or tightness of the musculature. Treatment is recommended for patients experiencing incontinence, painful intercourse, constipation, and pain in the low back, hips and pelvis. Additionally, your pelvic floor physiotherapist can help prepare for childbirth, guide your recovery after birth, and restore your pelvic floor and core strength.
The pelvic floor is made up of muscles, ligaments, nerves and connective tissues that extend from the pubic bone to the tailbone. These muscles form a sling, which are responsible for maintaining continence, providing trunk stability, supporting the internal organs, and improving sexual function.
A pelvic floor physiotherapist can help treat a range of conditions including, but not limited to:
Health History and Privacy:
Prior to seeing your physiotherapist you will be asked to fill out a health intake form. This will give your physiotherapist a better understanding of your health history before you begin your one-on-one 60-minute assessment. Here the physiotherapist will review your goals of treatment, explain pelvic health anatomy, and describe each of the assessment options available. Your pelvic floor physiotherapy sessions are held in a private room, where your privacy and confidentiality are a top priority.
Examination and Treatment:
Together the physiotherapist and client decide which type of assessment and treatments are best for the individual. Your physiotherapist may recommend an internal and/or external (vaginal and/or rectal) examination. During the internal exam the strength, tone and coordination of the pelvic floor will be assessed. Additionally, the spine, pelvis, hips, and abdominal muscles strength and mobility will also be assessed.
An internal exam is never mandatory; however, research suggests this is the best way to assess the pelvic floor muscles and connective tissue within your pelvis. It is important for your physiotherapist to assess your pelvic floors ability to both contract and to relax, and they can achieve this by palpating the muscles directly. This internal exam allows your physiotherapist to ensure you are performing the recommended exercises correctly, and make modifications and corrections as required based on the function of your pelvic floor. If you are uncomfortable having an internal exam for any reason, other treatments and assessment options are available.
The goal of the physiotherapist is to make every physiotherapy assessment or treatment session efficient, enjoyable and stress-free. Late patients impact the quality of care by reducing patient time with the physiotherapist. If you’re late, The physiotherapist will make every effort to see you for the remainder of the scheduled time. However, the full fee will be charged for this appointment. Thank you for your understanding and cooperation.
