Frequently Asked Questions

Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy has gained attention over the last few years, and while it gets thrown around as a therapeutic approach for women, what does it all mean and what can you expect from treatment? Let's dive in!

Pelvic Floor 101

  • The pelvic floor is a group of muscles and connective tissues that form a hammock-like structure at the base of the pelvis. It spans the area between the pubic bone at the front, the tailbone (coccyx) at the back, and the two pelvic sidewalls. The pelvic floor provides support for the pelvic organs, including the bladder, uterus (in females), and rectum. These muscles can be felt through the vagina or rectum.

  • Sphincteric Function: They contribute to urinary and fecal continence by forming a sphincter around the urethra, vagina (in females), and anus.

    Sexual Function: They play a role in sexual function by contributing to arousal and orgasm.

    Stability: The pelvic floor muscles work in coordination with the abdominal and back muscles to provide stability for the spine and pelvis.

    Issues with the pelvic floor, such as weakness or hypertonicity (excessive tension), can lead to various symptoms and conditions, including urinary and fecal incontinence, pelvic pain, and sexual dysfunction. Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy is often used to address these concerns and improve the function of the pelvic floor muscles.

  • Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy (PFPT) is a specialized form of physical therapy that focuses on assessing and addressing issues related to the pelvic floor muscles. These muscles are located inside the vagina/pelvis. The pelvic floor is a group of muscles at the base of the pelvis that plays a crucial role in supporting organs such as the bladder, uterus, and rectum. During your appointment I will do an internal evaluation (vaginal exam) and external exam (assessment of lower back hips and abdomen). Once I evaluate and feel the tissue, tone, tension and strength of the muscles I will develop a treatment plan.

  • During your time at Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy various techniques will be used, including manual therapy (internal massage or trigger point release of the muscles in the vagina or rectum), or manual therapy to external muscles (glutes, lower back muscles etc), exercise recommendation and education, to help individuals improve the function and coordination of their pelvic floor muscles. We can also chat about other services I offer that can support your healing process such as dry needling, electrical stimulations, and more.

  • Pelvic Floor PT is beneficial for individuals experiencing issues such as urinary or fecal incontinence, pelvic pain, pregnancy, postpartum concerns, and sexual dysfunction. The goal is to enhance pelvic floor strength, flexibility, and overall function, thereby alleviating symptoms and improving quality of life.

What to Expect at an Appointment

  • We will first chat about all the symptoms you are experiencing, I’ll tell you all about the pelvic floor, and then I’ll explain what the examination process looks like. I will then conduct an internal vaginal examination to assess the condition of the pelvic floor muscles and an external examination of your lower back, hips or anything else depending on your symptoms. Once the exams are complete I will explain the assessment, detail any identified impairments or issues, and we’ll discuss a plan of care. You can wear comfy workout clothes and tennis shoes to your appointment!

  • 75-minute evaluation and subsequent follow-up appointments are scheduled for 60 minutes each.

  • Yes! You can attend pelvic floor therapy even when you're on your period. It's a natural and recurring aspect of women's lives!

  • The frequency of visits is dependent on the specific condition we are addressing. Following your initial examination, a personalized care plan will be formulated, determining the number of visits and the frequency of appointments.

  • I do not accept insurance; this is a cash-pay service. However, you can utilize your Health Savings Account (HSA) for these visits.