A Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy Evaluation

What are some questions you can ask yourself to determine whether you may need a visit to a Pelvic health and wellness physical therapist?

1. Do you ever have pelvic region pain? Pain in the perineum, pubic/bladder area, genitals, or anorectal pain?
2. Do you experience urinary urgency, urinary frequency, dribbling after urinating, incomplete emptying, or difficulty starting or stopping a stream of urine?
3. Do you experience bowel incontinence, leaking, incomplete emptying, constipation or chronic straining with bowel movements? Do you have involuntary loss of gas or inability to hold back gas?
4. Do you have pain with sex, pain with urination, or pain associated with bowel movements?
5. Do you have pain with sitting? Pain in the hip, low back, tailbone, or groin?
6. Do you have a feeling of pressure or a feeling of “falling out” of your pelvic organs?

If you answered YES to any of the above questions, there is a possibility that the underlying cause of the dysfunction is related to the pelvic floor.

The good news is... Physical therapists that specialize in the treatment of pelvic floor dysfunction will help you determine where the root of the dysfunction is coming from and develop an individualized plan of care to set you on your healing journey.

What should you expect during your Pelvic Physical Therapy Evaluation?

1. A Detailed Past and Present Medical History

This is a thorough conversation between the therapist and patient where we will discuss any symptoms, pain, bowel and bladder routine, diet and lifestyle habits, pregnancy history, medications, trauma, and anything that is concerning you. Pelvic floor issues are usually multi-factorial; a thorough history will allow us to put all of the pieces of the clinical puzzle together to develop an effective plan of care.

2. The Physical Examination (External and Internal)

The pelvic floor does not work in isolation. It functions in close coordination with the rest of our body. Therefore, at Pelvicore Rehab our approach is, "A total body approach to healing."

• External Exam- A head to toe postural assessment will be performed in sitting and standing. All joints will be assessed for symmetry as joint alignment will affect the length-tension relationship of muscles. Your abdominal wall, mobility of connective tissue, respiratory diaphragm, breathing patterns, muscles of the sacrum, pelvis, and hips will be assessed as they work closely with the pelvic floor.
• Internal Exam-The pelvic floor will be evaluated internally either intra-vaginally or intra-rectally in order to assess the strength, tone, symmetry, and endurance of these muscles. This exam differs significantly from a doctor’s exam; there are no stir-ups or speculums. I will use a gentle touch and communicate with you every step of the way to ensure your comfort.

3. Patient Education

Pelvicore Rehab LLC focuses on patient education on every visit. We believe that knowledge is power and is critical for long-term benefits. You will be taught specific hands-on strategies, breathing techniques, postural alignment, joint protection, body mechanics, stretches or exercises based on your individual needs. The individualized home program is meant to facilitate healing and empower you in the recovery process.

4. Plan of Care and Discussion of Findings

We will discuss the findings and formulate the plan of care together. You will be a part of the process every step of the way during our office treatments and with a home program. I will answer any remaining questions or concerns.

At Pelvicore Rehab LLC, the line of communication is open at all times in order to ensure a feeling of confidence and being supported during the healing process. Every measure will be taken to promote the best outcomes for your recovery.

Be Proactive!

Be your own best advocate for your pelvic health and wellness!

For more information or to make an appointment go to Pelvicore Rehab or call 561-295-1631