What is Pelvic Floor Physiotherapy
Pelvic Floor Physiotherapy is a branch of physiotherapy that deals specifically with the function of the Pelvic Floor Muscles. Pelvic Floor Physiotherapy has been proven to be the ideal first line of defence when dealing with incontinence and pelvic pain.
During a Pelvic Floor Physiotherapy Assessment, the physiotherapist will complete an internal and external exam by using hands-on techniques to determine the how the pelvic floor muscles are functioning. This assessment will inform the therapist on how well an individual is able to contract and relax these muscles, in turn determining if there is hypotonicity (weak pelvic floor muscles) or hypertonicity (tight pelvic floor muscles). In addition to determining the strength of these muscles, the therapist is able to assess other factors that can influence their function, such as the low-back, sacro-iliac joints, hip joints and the connective tissue that surrounds the area.
Benefits of Pelvic Floor Physiotherapy
Pelvic Floor Physiotherapy is beneficial in improving the symptoms of a variety of pelvic floor dysfunctions. Here are a few of many issues that can be helped and treated with the aid of Pelvic Floor Physiotherapy.
- Incontinence
- Urinary frequency/urgency
- Constipation
- Dyspareunia (painful intercourse)
- Pudendal nerve irritation
- Pelvic girdle pain and post partum assessment
