We strive to empower our patients through education and movement-based care to provide you with the tools needed to promote a safe and more comfortable pregnancy, labor and delivery; as well as restore function, fitness, and improve quality of life postpartum.
What is the Pelvic Floor?
The pelvic floor muscles form the base of the group of muscles commonly referred to as the “core.” The pelvic floor muscles work with the deep abdominal and back muscles, as well as the diaphragm to support the spine and control the pressure in the abdomen.
Pelvic Floor Dysfunction
Pelvic floor dysfunction (PFD) is defined as having a problem with the group of muscles called the levator ani, which is a broad, thin muscle situated on the sides of the pelvis. These muscles span from the pubic bone to the tail bone creating the “floor” of the pelvis. It is very common to develop impairments or injuries to the pelvic floor during pregnancy and following delivery due to the excessive strain placed on these muscles.
Childbirth
PFD is a common impairment following childbirth. It is estimated that up to 35-50% of women experience urinary incontinence following childbirth and 20% of first-time moms experience pelvic floor muscle injury after a normal pregnancy and delivery. These impairments are often exacerbated further with physical activity. PFD can include pelvic pain, urinary or bowel incontinence, pelvic organ prolapse, painful sex, and diastasis rectus abdominis (partial or complete separation of the superficial abdominal muscles).
PFD Symptoms
- Urinary leaking, urinary urgency, frequency, hesitancy, stopping and starting the stream of urine, painful urination, or inability to empty the bladder
- Constipation, straining, pain with bowel movements
- Unexplained lower back pain or pain in the pelvic region, genital area, or rectum
- Pain with gynecological exams or intimacy
- Uncoordinated muscle contractions causing the pelvic floor muscles to spasm
- Pressure or bulging sensations in the vagina or a feeling that body tissue is falling out
- Abdominal weakness after childbirth/cesarian section
Pelvic Floor Rehab
Pelvic floor rehabilitation describes an approach to improving the strength and function of the pelvic floor muscles that support the pelvic organs including the bladder, bowel and uterus. Our pelvic floor PT specializes in treating women during the prenatal and postpartum periods. Treatment focuses on addressing pain restrictions and developing a safe exercise program during pregnancy to prepare the body for the “marathon” of labor and delivery.
Post Pardom
We also provide treatment for postpartum recovery, including education and development of an exercise program to facilitate a safe return to fitness. We are aware that some of these conditions encompassing pelvic floor dysfunction (PFD) can be uncomfortable to talk about, so we provide a private treatment room to respect the sensitive nature of the needs of your condition.
TeleHealth
We also provide Telehealth services to help accommodate your busy schedule and allow you to train in the comfort of your home. You can expect to leave your appointment with a better understanding of your current symptoms and condition, along with a detailed plan of care and home exercise program.
Email sami@udistrictpt.com with questions