Pelvic floor therapy not just for women

By its mere name, pelvic floor physical therapy may sound like a treatment only for women. However, this specialized type of physical therapy can also benefit men and children.

Pelvic floor physical therapy is a non-surgical option for pelvic pain; urinary frequency, urgency, hesitancy, and leakage; digestive/bowel irregularities; and sexual dysfunctions. It can be part of a personalized treatment plan that includes exercise, education, and behavior modification. The goal is to relieve symptoms of pain, discomfort, and disruptions to quality of life.

What is the pelvic floor?

The pelvic floor is a group of muscles that support the bladder, rectum, uterus (in women), and prostate (in men). Certain health conditions and life experiences can cause these muscles to become strained, weakened, or overly tight and not function properly. This can be due to a traumatic injury to the pelvic area, a prior pelvic surgery (e.g., hysterectomy, prostatectomy), pregnancy and childbirth, stress and anxiety, and aging.

Pelvic floor physical therapy can help with conditions, such as:

• Urinary or fecal incontinence
• Urinary urgency or frequency
• Pelvic organ prolapse
• Pelvic pain
• Painful intercourse
• Constipation
• Back pain
• SI joint pain

Physical therapists, some of whom have additional training in pelvic floor muscle health, can provide exercises to strengthen or relax pelvic floor muscles. Sessions may also include stretches, manual therapy, biofeedback therapy, and electrical stimulation.

Individuals who have symptoms of a pelvic floor condition should contact their healthcare provider. A medical referral is required for pelvic floor physical therapy.

Horizon Health’s pelvic floor physical therapy program is led by a doctor of physical therapy, who is a Board-Certified Clinical Specialist in Women’s Health Physical Therapy.