What Is Done In Pelvic Floor Therapy?

Suffering from pelvic pain, incontinence, or discomfort during intimate moments can affect a person's overall mental, physical, and emotional well-being. Fortunately, pelvic floor therapy has come to the rescue, offering relief and improvement to those struggling with such issues. But what exactly is pelvic floor therapy, and what can you expect during a session? In this comprehensive guide, we will walk you through everything you need to know about pelvic floor therapy, including the techniques used and the benefits you can reap.

Pelvic floor therapy refers to a variety of treatments and exercises designed to target the muscles, ligaments, and nerves that support the bladder, uterus or prostate, and rectum. These exercises aim to strengthen and relax the pelvic floor muscles, which can become weak or tight due to various factors such as childbirth, surgery, obesity, and aging. By addressing these issues, pelvic floor therapy helps to reduce pain, improve strength and control, and enhance sexual function.

There are several techniques used in pelvic floor therapy, which include:

Manual Therapy

This involves the therapist using their hands to gently manipulate and stretch the pelvic floor muscles. They may apply pressure to specific trigger points, release tight muscles, and help the patient to engage and relax these muscles effectively.

Biofeedback

This technique uses electronic sensors attached to the patient's body to measure muscle activity. The therapist then guides the patient through exercises, while the biofeedback device provides information on muscle contractions and relaxation. This real-time feedback helps patients to understand and control their pelvic floor muscles better.

Electrical Stimulation

Small electrical currents are used to stimulate the pelvic floor muscles, helping to reduce pain and improve function. This can be done through the use of a small probe inserted into the vagina or rectum, or through the use of adhesive electrodes placed on the skin around the pelvis.

Exercises

Therapists may teach patients specific exercises to practice at home, such as Kegels. These exercises focus on engaging, lifting, and releasing the pelvic floor muscles, leading to increased strength and control.

Relaxation Techniques

Many people may hold tension or stress in their pelvic floor muscles, which can exacerbate symptoms. Therapists can help patients learn relaxation techniques such as mindfulness, deep breathing, and progressive muscle relaxation, to address this tension.

What Is Done In Pelvic Floor Therapy Example

Let's consider a woman who has recently had a baby and is experiencing urinary incontinence. During her pelvic floor therapy session, the therapist may start with a manual therapy technique to assess and release any tightness in her pelvic floor muscles. Then, they might use biofeedback to teach her how to properly engage and relax these muscles. They may also teach her how to perform kegel exercises and advise her on how frequently to practice them at home. Finally, they might suggest relaxation techniques to help the muscles relax and ease any tension.

In conclusion, pelvic floor therapy offers an effective, non-invasive solution to common pelvic floor issues. Not only does it address the physical symptoms, but it also empowers individuals to understand and take control of their own bodies. Now that you are well-informed about the techniques and benefits of pelvic floor therapy, don't hesitate to share this knowledge with those who might be struggling with similar issues. Be sure to check out our other guides on Pelvic Floor Therapy for more in-depth information on specific exercises, techniques, and advice to help improve overall pelvic health.