Pelvic Health Physical Therapy
At Grassroots we want to provide specialized care to women experiencing pelvic floor dysfunction. Pain during and after pregnancy is common, but does not have to be the norm. Working with a pelvic health physical therapist can help you prepare for childbirth and have a healthy recovery afterwards. However, Pelvic Health PT is not limited to prenatal and postpartum care. Women at all stages of life can experience issues that limit quality of life.
The pelvis is an integral part of the human body—it houses multiple organ systems, supports the spine, and provides a point of articulation with the lower extremities. The pelvis has a group of muscles, ligaments, and tissues that stabilize the pelvis, provide support to the abdominal and pelvic organs, help with bowel and bladder function, as well as sexual function. When something goes awry in the pelvis, it can cause issues elsewhere and vice versa. This is why your rehab plan will often include a comprehensive evaluation of the entire musculoskeletal system, rather than just the pelvis alone.
During pregnancy weight gain, changes with your center of gravity and posture, as well as hormonal changes can effect the way you move. These changes are often the driving factor in pregnancy-related symptoms. Women can experience gait changes and issues with transitions as well as pain or discomfort with prolonged activity or lifting during their pregnancy. We provide a safe and thorough evaluation and treatment plan to help get you functioning better through your pregnancy and after delivery.
Pregnancy Related Symptoms:
Lower back pain after pregnancy →
Pelvic girdle pain →
Pelvic organ prolapse →
Pain during sex or menstruation →
Sciatica →
Abdominal Wall Seperation (Diastasis Recti) →
Gait difficulties →
Pain in the SI joint, pubic bone, and tailbone →
Postpartum carpal tunnel →
Urinary leakage, urgency and frequency →
Constipation and fecal incontinence →
Benefits of Prenatal and Postpartum Physical Therapy:
Help increase strength, flexibility, and posture for improved function during pregnancy and improved preparation for delivery
Help manage weight changes during and after pregnancy
Improve gait and walking tolerance
Improve posture and sitting tolerance
Improve sleep and ability to transition in and out of bed and on and off surfaces
What to expect during a women’s health physical therapy visit
There will always be lots and lots of education to empower your decision making. Our primary goal is to give you the tools to manage your symptoms so that you do not have to rely on seeing a therapist forever.
Your sessions will always be 1-on-1 in a private treatment room. During the first appointment, you will spend some time discussing your history, concerns, and goals for therapy. We will discuss everything from urinary and bowel habits, sexual health, and everyday activities and routines.
The physical exam involves a typical musculoskeletal assessment, which includes:
Posture, alignment, and gait assessment
Spine, hip, and abdominal wall assessment
Evaluation of surrounding muscles groups
Internal pelvic floor muscle assessment** to assess tone, tension, and strength
** Although not required, an internal muscle assessment gives the therapist the best information about your body. It is only performed with your consent and can be postponed to a future session.
Book an appointment:
To find out if Pelvic Health PT is right for you, please contact us.