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Women's Health
We often hear that many women are embarrassed about what they are experiencing when it comes to issues related to the body. Most often Women do not realize that there is help for very common discomforts that they deal with.
What is Pelvic Health?
Pelvic Health is a specialized area of health care that focuses on the optimal function of the pelvic floor muscles, bladder, urinary tract, bowel, rectum, sexual function with a holistic and mind-body approach to overall wellness of all systems. Pelvic Health physical therapy includes evaluation and treatment of a wide range of pelvic conditions (listed below), which are treated by a Pelvic Health physical therapist and many times with a team approach including other providers and specialists (listed below).
Pelvic Health Physical Therapy is the evaluation, assessment and treatment of the pelvis, hip and low back in addition to all contributing factors and includes the muscles, joints, ligaments, positioning and function as it all relates to one or a combination of pelvic conditions (listed below). Pelvic Health Physical Therapy has several terms that are related: Pelvic, Pelvic Floor, Women’s Pelvic, Urogynecologic Physical Therapy and Pelvic Rehab. Physical Therapy may include external and internal manual therapy including myofascial release, soft tissue mobilization, trigger point release, visceral or connective tissue manipulation, in addition to biofeedback and electrical stimulation. A multidisciplinary and holistic approach is encouraged. I can assist with referrals for complementary services that will enhance your healing process.
The Pelvic Floor, Pelvic Dysfunction, and Pelvic Pain
Millions of Americans are suffering from pelvic floor dysfunction, yet for most, the disease goes unidentified and untreated. Statistically, twenty percent of all Americans will suffer from some type of pelvic floor dysfunction sometime during their lives. Over 25 million Americans suffer from urinary incontinence, and this is without considering those who suffer from pelvic pain alone. Pelvic Floor Dysfunction is not just a "women's" disorder; it can affect all people regardless of their biological sex or age, including children.
The pelvic floor is made up of muscles and other tissues that form a sling from the pubic bone to the tailbone. They assist in maintaining upright posture, supporting abdominal and pelvic organs, and help to control bladder, bowel and sexual activity. When these muscles become overactive, or overused, the result can be pain and decreased function in any of the areas mentioned above. Pelvic floor dysfunction (PFD) refers to a wide range of problems that occur when the muscles of the pelvic floor are not functioning normally and are often too tight, and weak. There is often related impairments of the sacroiliac joint, low back, coccyx and/or hip joint, that accompany this condition, and can contribute to pain and loss of function. Due to the complexity of the anatomy and multiple functions of the pelvic region, the underlying cause of pelvic pain is difficult to determine, and the entire body must be treated holistically to resolve symptoms.
Pelvic Floor Dysfunction and its related conditions can be due to infections (usually not diagnosed), pregnancy or childbirth, poor posture from the chronic low back or SI dysfunction, trauma (e.g. bad fall), or following surgery. It can also be insidious and appear to have no real incident that caused it.
The physical therapists at Actify Physiotherapy & Wellness are experts in evaluating and treating the multifaceted condition of pelvic pain and PFD. We are trained to identify and address the multiple contributing factors of pelvic floor dysfunction, utilizing an individually designed and specific treatment regimen geared towards each patient's individual needs.
Pelvic Health Conditions Can Affect
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Abdomen
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Bladder
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Bones and Joints of the Pelvis, Sacrum, Hips, Lumbar Spine
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Gastrointestinal System
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Muscles of the Pelvic Floor, Hip and Low Back
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Sexual Function
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Tailbone or Coccyx
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Urinary Tract
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