Pelvic Floor Dysfunction (PFD) is a condition where pelvic floor muscles are either under-active or over-active, creating weakness or excessive tone. This muscle dysfunction can alter bladder and/or bowel habits as well as sexual function. PFD is very common, at least 1/3 of women are affected by it at some point in their lifetime. In addition to disrupting everyday life, PFD can often be very painful.
Venture™ is committed to helping those with PFD regain control of their life. Our pelvic floor program is staffed by therapists who have gone through specialized training and who feel passionately about their role in helping those with PFD. You can learn more about our pelvic health program here. Please contact us directly with specific questions and/or to set up an appointment.
GOALS OF PHYSICAL THERAPY
- Regain control of your life
- Regain control of your bladder and/or bowels
- Decrease pain and return to daily activities and the things you love
- Avoid surgery
- Reduce need to take medications
- Refer you to the correct specialists if needed
COMMON SYMPTOMS:
- Urinary with coughing, sneezing, laughing, yelling, running, jumping, and lifting
- Urinary leakage on the way to the bathroom
- Use of the bathroom more than 8 times a day or more than once a night
- Using the bathroom "just in case"
- Pelvic or lower abdominal pressure
- Unable to fully void
- Urge to go to the bathroom after just going
- Constipation
- Pelvic pain
- Pain with use of tampon or intercourse
COMMON TREATMENTS:
- Treatment is based on your needs and may include:
- Pelvic floor strengthening
- Core strengthening
- Manual soft tissue mobilizations
- Manual joint mobilizations
- Diaphragmatic breathing
- Relaxation techniques
- Scar tissue mobilization
- Education on bladder training, diet, and behavioral interventions
WHAT CAN I EXPECT ON MY INITIAL EVALUATION?
You will be asked about your medical history and current symptoms.
Zi will discuss your concerns and then examine your spine, hips, and externally (with your clothes on) assess your pelvic floor. If necessary, on a subsequent visit, an internal exam may be warranted (Only with your permission and at your comfort level).
Together you and Zi will come up with a plan of care that addresses your goals. Zi will explain the progression of treatment and how to accomplish your goals.
