What is Pelvic PT?
Hi! I’m Natasha and I am a physical therapist who specializes in treatment of pelvic floor dysfunction. Like other PT, I focus on evaluation and treatment of dysfunction of bone, joint, muscle, and connective tissue. Unlike other PT, I focus primarily on pelvic floor dysfunction.
Pelvic floor dysfunction can look like:
Urinary incontinence, urgency, and frequency
Fecal incontinence, urgency, and constipation
Pelvic heaviness or prolapse symptoms
Pelvic and abdominal pain and muscle spasms
Straining to empty your bladder or bowels
Painful sex, pelvic exams, tampon use
This list names just a few of the conditions I treat! Pelvic dysfunction can happen at any age and to any gender, but frequently affects those experiencing perimenopause and menopause, folks undergoing prostatectomy, and to the pregnant and postpartum population, to name a few. Gender affirmation care, including hormone replacement therapy and bottom surgeries, can also affect pelvic function. Anyone who has experienced pelvic dysfunction knows how much it can affect quality of life, making it difficult to exercise, travel, and enjoy time with loved ones.
I’ll start an evaluation by asking questions regarding bowel, bladder, and sexual dysfunction. I know these can be uncomfortable subjects to talk about, but this is a no-judgment zone and there is quite literally no such thing as too much information- the more I know the better I can personalize your treatment plan! I’ll also ask about diet, lifestyle, work, and exercise as all these can contribute to pelvic floor dysfunction.
As a Pelvic PT, I can provide a deeper understanding of how the pelvic floor is functioning with internal examination, which could include a vaginal or rectal exam. Internally, I can assess strength, muscle tone, coordination, and connective tissue integrity - all things that contribute to pelvic floor function. I’ll perform trigger point release to muscles that I find that are tense, similar to how a massage therapist may work on your shoulder or back muscles. These exams are always optional and I make sure my patients feel comfortable each step of the way (no stirrups or speculum here!).
Based on what we find with the examination, I will provide my patients with personalized exercise programs and perform manual treatments as necessary to address dysfunction. I often refer to other providers and may suggest tools such as dilators or a pelvic wand to help optimize recovery. Pelvic PT is highly individualized and can vary depending on symptoms and severity, but the goal is always to help you to feel confident doing the things you love without concerns of leakage or pain!
Are you ready to see how we can help you with your pelvic pain? Schedule your free 15 minute phone consult or schedule your visit with us below!