A comprehensive rehabilitation program for people suffering from Pelvic Floor Dysfunction
Many men and women in the Greater Cleveland area come to Southwest General to receive treatment for conditions affecting the pelvic muscles and for bladder control issues. To help them, our Physical Therapy Department has specialized and readily available Pelvic Floor Therapy programs that lead to successful outcomes.
What is Pelvic Floor Dysfunction?
The pelvic floor is a group of muscles that forms the lower boundary of the pelvis and keeps the abdominal and pelvic organs in place so that they function properly. The organs in this area include the bladder, uterus (women), prostate (men), and rectum (the area at the end of the large intestine where the body stores solid waste). Pelvic Floor Dysfunction occurs when pelvic muscles and/or connective tissue are weakened or injured, usually through childbirth, surgery, trauma or aging.
Symptoms of Pelvic Floor Dysfunction
Pelvic Floor Dysfunction has a range of symptoms including, but not limited to:
- Urinary urgency/frequency
- Bladder or bowel incontinence
- Pelvic or abdominal pain
- Discomfort with elimination
- Pain during intercourse
- Pelvic pressure/prolapse
A Professional and Compassionate Rehabilitation Team
At Southwest General, pelvic floor therapy is provided by a team of experienced and compassionate physical therapists who have been trained through the American Physical Therapy Association and/or Herman Wallace in the area of Pelvic Physical Therapy. Team members evaluate each patient prior to beginning treatment. Patient evaluation includes:
- Patient history
- Posture assessment
- Muscle strength assessment of the abdomen and pelvis
- Lower extremities evaluation
Pelvic Floor Therapy Treatment Options
Based on the results of the initial evaluation, a personalized plan of care is developed for each patient. Treatment options may include:
- Therapeutic exercise for the pelvic floor andrelated musculature
- Posture re-education
- Manual therapy (i.e. massage techniques, myofascial release, muscle energy techniques)
- Education, including bladder and bowel training
- Breathing and relaxation techniques
- Electrical stimulation/biofeedback
Most treatment programs range from six to eight weeks, with patient progress being routinely evaluated during treatment.