What is a Pelvic Health Physiotherapist?
What is a Pelvic Health Physiotherapist? A Quick Guide
Pelvic health physiotherapy is a specialised field within physiotherapy that focuses on diagnosing and treating issues related to the pelvic region. This area of physiotherapy is designed to address conditions affecting the pelvic floor, which includes the muscles, ligaments, and tissues supporting the bladder, bowel, and reproductive organs. But what exactly does a pelvic health physiotherapist do, and how can they help? Let’s dive in.
What Does a Pelvic Health Physiotherapist Do?
Assess and Diagnose
They perform thorough assessments to identify pelvic floor issues. This can include physical exams and sometimes internal assessments to check muscle strength and function.
Create Treatment Plans
Based on the assessment, they develop personalised treatment plans. These often include exercises, manual therapy, and strategies to help you to manage symptoms.
Educate and Advise
They educate about conditons and life stages that relate to changes in a persons pelvic health (e.g post natal, menopause). This education helps patients take control of their condition.
Use Manual Therapy
They use therapeutic techniques to relieve muscle tension, improve flexibility, and reduce pain.
Provide Support
They offer emotional support and help patients understand their conditions and treatment options.
Common Conditions Treated
Pelvic health physiotherapists can help with:
Stress Urinary Incontinence (SUI): Leaking urine during activities like coughing or exercising.
Pelvic Pain: Discomfort in the pelvic region from various causes.
Postpartum Recovery: Assistance with recovery and pelvic floor issues after childbirth.
Fecal Incontinence: Difficulty controlling bowel movements.
Prolapse: When pelvic organs drop from their normal position, causing discomfort.
Why See a Pelvic Health Physiotherapist?
Specialized Expertise
They have specific training in pelvic health that general physiotherapists might not have.
Non-Surgical Options
They offer effective, non-surgical treatments for pelvic health issues.
Personalized Care
Treatment plans are customized to fit your needs and lifestyle.
Holistic Approach
They address both symptoms and underlying causes, focusing on overall well-being.
