Female pelvic pain is an extremely common condition that may often be the symptom of a form of pelvic floor dysfunction. The pelvic floor is a group of muscles that form a hammock-like structure that supports the organs of the lower abdomen and assists with control of the bladder.
Women with pelvic floor dysfunction often have increased pelvic pain with intercourse or use of tampons, increased urgency and/or frequency of urination, or pain with specific positions or activities. They may also have symptoms of incontinence, leakage and/or weakness of the pelvic floor muscles.
Unfortunately, many women often ignore symptoms of pelvic floor dysfunction such as pelvic pain, incontinence, or urgency for years before seeking treatment. This often happens due to the misconception that these symptoms are “normal” during aging or during pregnancy. Often patients, and even other medical professionals, are unaware that physical therapists who are trained to perform pelvic floor physical therapy have a variety of treatment techniques to offer women suffering with symptoms of pelvic floor dysfunction.
How can physical therapy help?
Physical therapy for pelvic pain will start with an assessment of your specific limitations in regards to flexibility, muscular strength, posture and skeletal structure. Assessment will include analysis of the musculature of the core, hips, and pelvic floor. Depending on the findings, your therapist may use a variety of treatment techniques to reduce symptoms and prevent future episodes of pain. Techniques may include manual therapies to reduce muscle tension and increase blood flow to affected area, as well as therapeutic exercises and stretches to strengthen or stretch affected soft tissues and promote better alignment and/or movement strategies.
Wellness programs are available for:
- Pre/Post Natal Pilates
- Pre/Post Natal Yoga
- Prenatal Massage
- General strength and flexibility training
If you have any questions about our services, call us today at 770-904-2332, or email us.
