Women do not often talk about pelvic health issues. Yet one in four suffers from conditions like incontinence, constipation, pelvic pain, pain during intercourse or pregnancy, abdominal pain after surgery, and endometriosis.
Pelvic health physical therapy (PT) is often the first line of defense to treat these conditions that both women and men experience. Here is what you need to know about this specialized PT.
What is pelvic health PT?
Pelvic health PT – also known as pelvic floor PT – uses proven techniques to evaluate and treat pelvic floor dysfunction. Treatment may include pelvic floor and core muscle coordination, bladder and bowel training, biofeedback, myofascial therapy to release tightness or pain, body mechanics, and abdominal and hip strengthening.
Who performs pelvic health PT?
Experienced physical therapists specially trained in treating individuals with pelvic floor disorders perform pelvic health therapy. They participate in robust continuing education to stay current on the latest standards and may also hold a specialty certification. Pelvic health therapists respect their patients’ sensitivities and are committed to helping you feel better.
Is it proven to help?
Research supports pelvic floor therapy as an effective treatment for pelvic pain, urinary incontinence, functional constipation, prenatal and postpartum changes, and more. Most of our patients experience reduced symptoms and improved quality of life after they complete therapy.
What happens during treatments?
During your first visit, your therapist takes time to get to know you, your medical history, and your lifestyle. In
a private treatment area, the therapist will perform a comprehensive exam to determine the cause of your symptoms. The exam may include an assessment of muscle strength, skeletal alignment, body mechanics, flexibility, and core muscle coordination. You will discuss an individualized treatment program with your therapist, including home exercises to support your goals. Patients typically have a series of appointments with their physical therapist over weeks or months.
Rachel Kim, PT, DPT, pelvic health physical therapist at Emerson, encourages people to give pelvic PT a try. She explains, “You do not need to live in pain. We are friendly professionals helping people improve their quality of life using proven techniques.”
“Listen to your body and get help if you are in pain. Pelvic health therapy gets your body in balance so you feel better and can resume your daily life. The Emerson team is experienced and kind, offering personalized care for every patient they treat. It is comforting to know this expertise is available so close to home.”
— Barbara O’Neill, patient
❱❱ To learn more and request an appointment, visit emersonhealth.org/pelvichealth or call 978-287-8200.
❱❱ Listen to a podcast with an Emerson pelvic health PT at emersonhealth.org/podcast, and follow along on Instagram @EmersonPelvicHealth.
❱❱ Oneeka Williams, MD, with Emerson Health Urology, specializes in female urologic issues. To learn more and make an appointment, visit emersonhealth.org/urology or call 978-287-8950.
