Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy

What is Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy?

Pelvic floor therapy is a specialized form of physical therapy that focuses on retraining, strengthening and relaxing the muscles of the pelvic floor. This can help improve bladder, bowel, and sexual function.

Understanding Pelvic Floor Anatomy

There are 3 layers of pelvic floor muscles – superficial, intermediate and deep.

Functions of the Pelvic Floor

  • Support – the pelvic floor muscles act like a hammock to support our pelvic organs (bladder, uterus, intestines).
  • Sphincter – pelvic floor muscles prevent leakage, but also allow for successful urination and bowel movements
  • Stability – the pelvic floor muscles provide stability for pelvic joints and contribute to management of intra-abdominal pressure.
  • Sexual function – proper contraction and relaxation of the pelvic floor help achieve arousal and orgasm
  • Sump pump – the pelvic floor muscles help move blood and lymphatic fluid through the pelvis and up to the trunk

Causes of Pelvic Floor Dysfunction

  • Overactive pelvic floor muscles
  • Underactive pelvic floor muscles
  • Constipation
  • Childbirth and pregnancy
  • Prior pelvic surgery
  • Stress
  • Trauma

Conditions We Treat

  • Bladder incontinence
  • Urinary frequency
  • Urinary urgency
  • Pelvic Organ Prolapse
  • Pelvic pain
  • Tailbone (coccyx) pain
  • Painful Bladder Syndrome (Interstitial Cystitis)
  • Constipation

Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy Treatment

Therapy for pelvic floor dysfunction will look different for each patient. At your first appointment, you will have a professional evaluation with a Doctor of Physical Therapy. After they assess your injury, answer your questions, and discuss your therapy goals; your pelvic PT will create your unique treatment plan. Your rehabilitation program may include:

  • Pelvic floor coordination exercises
  • Pelvic floor relaxation exercises
  • sEMG biofeedback
  • Deep core muscle activation exercises
  • Manual therapy
  • Education
  • Home exercises
  • Core strengthening
  • Hip strengthening
  • Lumbar strengthening
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