What is the role of a pelvic floor therapist?

What is a Pelvic floor therapist?

Pelvic floor therapists are specialized healthcare professionals who helps individuals — primarily pregnant women or postpartum mothers — overcome a wide range of pelvic floor dysfunctions and disorders. They have advanced training and skills in assessing and treating conditions that affect the pelvic region, including the pelvic floor muscles, ligaments, and connective tissues.

What does a Pelvic Floor Phyiscal Therapist do?

Pelvic Health Assessment and Evaluation

One of the key responsibilities of a pelvic floor therapist is to conduct a thorough evaluation to identify the root cause of a patient's symptoms.

This may involve assessing muscle strength and tone, coordination, flexibility, and overall function of the pelvic floor muscles. By gaining a comprehensive understanding of the underlying issues, the therapist can develop a personalized treatment plan tailored to the individual needs of the patient.

Design Personalized Treatment Plans

Pelvic floor therapists utilize a variety of techniques and modalities to address pelvic floor dysfunction.

Physiotherapy techniques, such as active muscle release and trigger point therapy, can help release tension and improve muscle function in the pelvic floor. Additionally, pelvic floor therapists may incorporate and prescribe exercises, such as Kegels and core strengthening exercises, to improve muscle strength and coordination. Biofeedback, a technology that provides real-time feedback on muscle activity, can also be used to enhance awareness and control of the pelvic floor muscles.

Patient Education

Education is another vital component of a pelvic floor therapist's role. Patients may receive guidance on lifestyle modifications, bladder and bowel habits, posture, and body mechanics to optimize pelvic floor function and overall well-being.

By empowering patients with knowledge and skills to manage their symptoms, pelvic floor therapists help improve quality of life and promote long-term success in treatment.

What conditions can a Pelvic Health Physical Therapist help with?

Common conditions treated by pelvic floor therapists include:

• pelvic pain‍
• urinary incontinence‍
• fecal incontinence
• pelvic organ prolapse
• dyspareunia (painful intercourse)
• postpartum recovery

There are a range of pelvic floor conditions can each have a significant impact on a person's physical, emotional, and social well-being, making the specialized care provided by pelvic floor therapists invaluable.

Pelvic Floor Physiotherapy has an Impact

In summary, pelvic floor therapists play a critical role in addressing pelvic floor dysfunction and improving the overall health and quality of life of their patients.

Through assessment, treatment, and education, these healthcare professionals help individuals regain control over their pelvic floor function and alleviate symptoms associated with various pelvic floor disorders.

If you are experiencing pelvic floor issues, seeking the expertise of a pelvic floor therapist — such as Anchor Health and Performance Clinic Mississauga's lead Physiotherapist Brittany Pereira — can be a valuable step towards achieving optimal pelvic health and well-being.