PELVIC HEALTH
Pelvic Health Physiotherapy
First visit: 60 minutes Typical visit: 30-60 minutes Pelvic floor physiotherapy is a branch of physiotherapy that assesses and treats pelvic floor and it’s supporting and surrounding structures. The pelvic floor consists of internal structures at the base of the male and female pelvis including muscles, ligaments, nerves, blood vessels and connective tissues. The pelvic floor works in a complementary relationship with the diaphragm as well as your back and hip muscles in order to function optimally. Some of its functions are to help support the pelvic organs, aid in sexual function and controlling bladder and bowel function. 
Symptoms and conditions treated through pelvic health physiotherapy include: pelvic, hip and/or low back pain, bladder/ bowel incontinence, constipation, dysmenorrhea, pelvic organ prolapse, prenatal and postpartum pelvic issues, painful intercourse, irritable bowel syndrome, prostate issues and erectile dysfunction. Treatments may include manual therapy, education and behaviour therapy, exercise programs, and therapeutic modalities. What to expect: An initial assessment involves a detailed history and conversation to discuss the issue, an external orthopedic exam of posture, body mechanics, low back and hips, an external and internal pelvic exam. The muscles of the pelvic floor are located internally and in many cases, physiotherapists recommend an internal assessment for which they have advanced post-graduate training. An internal exam will not be necessary for everyone and this will be discussed with you by your physiotherapist. If you are uncomfortable with an internal exam it is not mandatory however research has shown that the internal examination and palpation of these muscles provides the best results for improvements of the issues listed above. FAQs Will this be private? Yes! Privacy and your comfort is of the utmost importance. Sessions will be in private rooms. Do I need a doctors referral? No, unless your insurance requires it in order for the session to be covered. As this is a discipline as physiotherapy, it is covered under most plans. Physiotherapists are considered primary health providers so you may come in without referral! Can I come when I’m on my period? Absolutely! ..as long as you feel comfortable to do so. This is very normal and expected as this comprises nearly ¼ of our time as people who menstruate! Still not sure if pelvic floor physiotherapy is right for you? Book a free consultation now by clicking here! Meet Physiotherapist, Alexa Starratt, PT Meet Physiotherapist, Kathleen Higgins, PT |
