Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy, What is it? Benefits And How To Do It?

By retraining and strengthening the pelvic floor muscles, pelvic floor physical therapy is a non-invasive, non-surgical technique to address these diseases.

This article will define pelvic floor physical therapy, outline its advantages, and describe how you can perform it on your own. 

Whether you’re experiencing pelvic floor issues or just want to maintain pelvic floor health, this post will cover all your bases.

Definition of Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy

Pelvic floor physical therapy is a type of therapy that focuses on the muscles, ligaments, and tissues in the pelvic floor region. These muscles play a crucial role in our daily lives, controlling urinary and bowel movements, as well as sexual function.

However, they can weaken or become injured due to a variety of factors such as childbirth, surgery, age, or chronic health conditions. When this happens, it can cause a range of problems, including urine incontinence, pelvic discomfort, and sexual dysfunction.

By improving pelvic floor muscle function, individuals can experience numerous benefits, such as improved bladder and bowel control, reduced pelvic pain, and improved sexual function. Pelvic floor physical therapy can also help prevent the need for surgery or medication to manage pelvic floor disorders.

Conditions that Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy can help with

Urinary Incontinence

Urinary incontinence is the loss of bladder control that results in the unintentional release of urine. This can be caused by weak pelvic floor muscles, which can be strengthened through PFPT. By improving the strength and coordination of these muscles, individuals can regain control of their bladder and reduce or eliminate episodes of incontinence.

Pelvic Pain

PFPT can help relieve pelvic pain by releasing tension in the pelvic floor muscles through massage, stretching, and other techniques. By addressing the underlying cause of the pain, individuals can experience long-term relief.

Constipation

Constipation is a common condition that can be caused by a variety of factors, including weak pelvic floor muscles. PFPT can help improve bowel function by strengthening these muscles and improving coordination with the muscles of the rectum. This can lead to more regular bowel movements and reduced discomfort.

Sexual Dysfunction

Can be caused by a variety of factors, including pelvic floor muscle dysfunction. PFPT can help improve sexual function by improving the strength and flexibility of the pelvic floor muscles. By addressing the underlying cause of sexual dysfunction, individuals can experience improved sexual health and satisfaction.

Other Conditions

PFPT can also be used to treat other pelvic floor muscle dysfunction, such as pelvic organ prolapse, vulvodynia, and interstitial cystitis. By improving the strength and coordination of the pelvic floor muscles, individuals can experience improved pelvic health and overall quality of life.

Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy can be a highly effective treatment for a wide range of conditions related to pelvic floor muscle dysfunction. By working with a trained PFPT specialist, individuals can improve their strength, function, and overall quality of life.

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Benefits of Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy

Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy offers a range of benefits for those who experience issues with their pelvic floor muscles. Here are some of the key benefits:

1. Improved bladder and bowel control: This can help individuals with urinary and fecal incontinence improve their bladder and bowel control, reducing the frequency and urgency of accidents.

2. Reduced pain and discomfort: This can aid in easing pelvic discomfort and pain, including pain experienced during sex or urination.

3. Increased strength and flexibility: Strengthen weak pelvic floor muscles, helping individuals to better control their bladder and bowel movements. It can also improve flexibility in tight muscles, reducing pain and discomfort.

4. Improved sexual function: Help improve sexual function by addressing issues such as pain during intercourse or difficulty achieving orgasm.

5. Postpartum recovery: This can aid in postpartum recovery by addressing issues such as pelvic pain, urinary incontinence, and diastasis recti (separation of abdominal muscles).

Overall, Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy can improve quality of life and help individuals regain confidence and control over their pelvic health.


Non-invasive Treatment

Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy is a non-invasive and cost-effective treatment option that can provide numerous benefits for people experiencing pelvic floor dysfunction. This type of therapy typically involves exercises and manual techniques that are designed to strengthen and relax the muscles of the pelvic floor.

One major benefit of Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy is that it is a non-invasive treatment. This means that it does not require surgery or medication, which can be a relief for those who prefer to avoid these options. Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy can often provide effective relief without the need for more invasive procedures.


Cost-effective Treatment

Another benefit of Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy is that it can be a cost-effective option. While the cost of therapy can vary depending on location and insurance coverage, Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy is generally less expensive than more invasive treatments like surgery. Additionally, the cost of Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy may be covered by insurance, making it a more accessible option for those who need it.


Fewer Side Effects

Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy also tends to have fewer side effects than other treatments. Additionally, the exercises and techniques used in Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy are generally safe and low-risk, making it a good option for those who are concerned about potential side effects.

Overall, Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy is a safe, effective, and affordable option for people experiencing pelvic floor dysfunction. By working with a trained therapist, individuals can experience the benefits of Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy and improve their quality of life.

How to do Pelvic Floor Exercises

Following these simple actions will help:

Identify the correct muscles: Before you start the exercises, it’s essential to identify the correct muscles. You can do this by stopping your urine mid-stream. The muscles that you use to stop urinating are your pelvic floor muscles.

Kegels: Involve contracting and relaxing your pelvic floor muscles. To perform Kegels, tighten your pelvic floor muscles, hold for 3-5 seconds, and then release. Repeat this exercise 10-15 times, three times a day.

Reverse Kegels: Work by relaxing and lengthening the pelvic floor muscles. To perform Reverse Kegels, take a deep breath and as you exhale, relax your pelvic floor muscles. You can do this exercise for 10-15 reps, three times a day.

Pelvic Tilts: Involve moving your pelvis back and forth to strengthen your pelvic floor muscles. Tighten your buttocks, and slowly lift your pelvis off the ground. Hold for a few seconds and then release. Repeat this exercise 10-15 times, three times a day.

Remember to start slowly and gradually increase the number of repetitions and the length of time you hold the contraction. With consistent practice, you’ll notice an improvement in your pelvic floor strength and overall pelvic health. If you’re unsure about the exercises or have any concerns, consult with a Pelvic Floor Physical Therapist.

How it Works

Pelvic floor physical therapy works by using a variety of techniques and exercises to improve the function of the pelvic floor muscles. Some of the techniques used may include manual therapy, biofeedback, electrical stimulation, and therapeutic exercises.

Manual therapy involves the use of hands-on techniques by a trained therapist to release tension or adhesions in the pelvic floor muscles. Biofeedback uses sensors to monitor muscle activity and help patients learn how to relax or contract their muscles more effectively. Electrical stimulation involves the use of a low-level electrical current to stimulate the muscles and improve muscle function.

Therapeutic exercises are a key component of pelvic floor physical therapy. These exercises can include kegels, reverse kegels, pelvic tilts, and other exercises that target the pelvic floor muscles. Overall, pelvic floor physical therapy works by addressing the underlying issues that contribute to pelvic floor dysfunction.

By improving muscle function and reducing tension in the pelvic floor muscles, patients can experience significant relief from symptoms and improve their quality of life. It is important to work with a qualified pelvic floor physical therapist to ensure that exercises are performed correctly and safely.

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The Bottom Line 

Pelvic floor physical therapy is a safe and effective treatment option for individuals with pelvic floor dysfunction. The symptoms of urine incontinence, pelvic discomfort, constipation, sexual dysfunction, and other diseases can be lessened with the help of this specific kind of physical therapy, which is non-invasive, affordable, and low-risk.

By working with a skilled pelvic floor physical therapist and practicing pelvic floor exercises regularly, individuals can improve their quality of life and regain control over their pelvic health.

Don’t hesitate to seek out a pelvic floor physical therapist if you’re experiencing any pelvic floor symptoms – your health and well-being are worth the investment.

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