Pelvic floor therapy is a specialized area of physical therapy focused on restoring healthy bladder, bowel, and sexual function. At Pulse Physical Therapy in Hinsdale, our team provides compassionate, evidence-based care for all individuals seeking to improve pelvic health, comfort, and confidence.
Our therapists are uniquely trained in pelvic floor physical therapy and provide a safe, supportive environment for everyone—regardless of gender identity or sexual orientation. Together, we’ll create a personalized plan to help you reach your goals and get back to feeling your best.
What is pelvic floor dysfunction?
Pelvic floor dysfunction refers to a wide range of conditions that affect the muscles, ligaments, and connective tissues of the pelvic muscles.
These muscles and connective tissues play a crucial role in supporting pelvic organs, controlling bladder and bowel function, and facilitating sexual function. Pelvic floor dysfunction can manifest in various ways.
What to expect in a pelvic floor physical therapy session:
In a pelvic floor physical therapy session, you can expect a thorough and personalized approach tailored to your needs and preferences. Here’s what typically occurs:
Medical History and Goal Setting: Your therapist will begin by discussing your medical history, current lifestyle, and future goals related to pelvic health. This information helps guide the treatment plan.
Movement Assessment: Your therapist will assess your movement patterns, strength, and mobility, focusing on areas relevant to pelvic floor dysfunction. This may involve various exercises and movements to evaluate your pelvic floor and surrounding muscles.
Internal Exam (Optional): While an internal examination may be suggested for a more comprehensive assessment, it is never mandatory. Your comfort and preferences are prioritized. If you choose to proceed with an internal exam, your therapist will explain the procedure and ensure you feel supported throughout.
Customized Exercise Program: Based on the evaluation findings and your goals, your therapist will create a customized exercise program tailored to your specific needs. This program may include pelvic floor exercises, stretches, strengthening exercises, and other therapeutic techniques for your pelvic floor muscles.
Collaboration and Adaptation: Collaboration between you and your therapist is essential. Your therapist will work closely with you to ensure the exercise program aligns with your lifestyle and preferences. If you have constraints or preferences regarding time or activities, your therapist will adapt the program accordingly to ensure it fits seamlessly into your routine.
Are you pregnant or postpartum? Pelvic floor physical therapy is a great first step!
If you’re newly pregnant or postpartum and don’t know what to expect, we understand. Our pelvic floor physical therapists are specialized in this area and can help you anticipate what to expect. They can review birthing positions, look at your low back pain, or teach you how to kegel. They will prescribe pregnant-appropriate exercises to reduce your current pain and make you strong for labor and delivery! In conclusion, we want to give you the advice and education to feel powerful, assertive, and independent in these challenging life stages.
What can a pelvic floor physical therapist treat (included but not limited to):
Urinary incontinence Painful sex Post-prostatectomy incontinence Diastasis recti abdominis Postpartum recovery from vaginal and cesarean birth Prenatal physical therapy Exercise in pregnancy Anal incontinence Pelvic organ prolapse Pelvic pain Pudendal neuralgia Interstitial cystitis
