Ossington Chiropractic and Rehabilitation (OCR)
Boutique wellness in Toronto's west end

pelvic health physiotherapy

Pelvic health physiotherapy

 
 

Pelvic Health physiotherapy


What is Pelvic Health Physiotherapy?

Pelvic health physiotherapy (also called pelvic floor physiotherapy or pelvic physiotherapy) is the assessment and treatment of various conditions that involve the pelvic floor or symptoms that manifest in that area of the body.

What is the pelvic floor?
The pelvic floor includes muscles, ligaments, nerves and connective tissue. It plays an important role in the body by providing support for the bladder, genitals, uterus and anus.

What symptoms are commonly treated using pelvic health physiotherapy?

Incontinence - leakage of urine or feces that cannot be controlled

Urgency - a strong, compelling urge to urinate or defecate that may be difficult to control

Chronic Pelvic Pain - pain within or around the pelvic region present for three months or more without any positive physical diagnosis or medical explanation

Nocturia - repeatedly waking at night to urinate

Constipation - difficulty passing stools or stools passing less than three times a week

Frequency - having to urinate so frequently that your normal routine is affected

Other common symptoms may include:

  • pre and post-natal pelvic pain

  • diastisis recti - an increased distance between the rectus abdominis muscles at the midline caused by weakness in the anterior abdominal wall.

  • painful intercourse

  • burning sensation

  • heaviness or pressure in the pelvic region

  • post C-section pain and weakness

  • perimenoupause/menopause

  • frequent UTI's

  • persistent back/hip/tailbone pain

What can I expect during my initial visit? 
Before pelvic health treatment begins, your pelvic health physiotherapist will take your full medical history and thoroughly discuss your current problems and symptoms.

With your informed consent, your pelvic health physiotherapist may perform a complete physical assessment of the joints and tissues affecting this area. This may include internal and external examinations to identify the affected tissues that may be contributing to your symptoms.

Common areas that may refer pain to the pelvic region include: the abdomen, lower back, hips, pubic symphysis (the firm, fixed joint between the two pubic bones) and sacro-iliac joint (the joint formed by the sacrum and ilium where they meet on either side of the lower back).

Based on the assessment, your pelvic health physiotherapist will work with you to design a plan of care that is specific to your particular goals and needs.

What types of treatments may be used by my pelvic health physiotherapist?

There are many types of pelvic floor treatments that are well supported by scientific literature and can be an effective part of your care. Your physiotherapist will discuss all of your options and work with you to design an individualized plan. They will ensure you are comfortable with the plan before proceeding with any treatment. Some of the treatment options are:

  • Manual Therapy - involves various hands-on techniques such as: stretching, facilitation, soft tissue massage, mobilization, as well as connective tissue and myofascial release techniques to the affected areas. Manual therapy has proven to be very effective when treating pelvic floor dysfunction.

  • Exercise prescription - As with other musculo-skeletal joints in the body, an individualized exercise program may include stretching, strengthening, proper posture and breathing techniques. Areas within the pelvic floor and other muscles surrounding the pelvis, core, and hips may be targeted.

  • Education - Knowledge is power! Many clients have improved their symptoms by simply understanding how lifestyle, diet, urinary and bowel hygiene can affect the pelvic floor. Understanding the anatomy and physiology of the pelvic floor, posture education, as well as knowing how to deal with chronic pain symptoms will akso assist with your recovery.

  • Bladder and/or bowel routine tracking

The initial pelvic health physiotherapy assessment is 60 min in length. Click the button below to find a time that works best for you. If you would like to book a complimentary 10 minute consultation with our pelvic health physiotherapist, feel free to call the clinic to book.