Pelvic Floor Therapy

What is Pelvic Floor Therapy?

Pelvic floor physical therapy is rehabilitation to the muscles and tissue in the abdomino-pelvic region. The pelvic floor muscles contribute to bowel, bladder, and sexual function.

The pelvic floor is a group of muscles, ligaments and connective tissues that support the bladder, rectum and other pelvic organs. In women, these muscles also support the uterus and vagina. 

Therapy may be needed before and after pelvic surgeries such as bladder repair, pelvic reconstruction, certain cancer treatments and prostate surgery. It may also be used as a means of conservative treatment for your pelvic health issues.

When the pelvic floor muscles aren’t working normally, you can experience:

Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy Techniques 

Mercy physical and occupational therapists use strength training, biofeedback, electrical stimulation, manual therapy and behavior modifications to promote pelvic floor health.

A comprehensive evaluation is completed at the first visit. The evaluation identifies dysfunction of the spine, abdominal wall, hips and the pelvic floor muscles, which may include an intra-vaginal or intra-rectal muscle assessment or biofeedback assessment. This exam helps determine an appropriate and individualized plan of care to improve your quality of life.

At Mercy, we understand how painful, disruptive and embarrassing pelvic, urinary and bowel issues can be. Our therapists will work closely with your physician to develop a personalized treatment plan to improve symptoms and allow you to regain confidence in daily activities.