Specialized Pelvic Care

Specialized Pelvic Care
Pregnant woman exercising on stability ball indoors.

What is Pelvic Physical/Occupational Therapy?

What is Pelvic Physical/Occupational Therapy?

Pelvic floor therapy is a specialized type of physical or occupational therapy that requires postgraduate training. Pelvic therapy can be performed by a physical therapist or occupational therapist.

The pelvic floor therapist will evaluate and treat the musculoskeletal disorders that occur in women throughout their lifespan in and around the pelvic region. This includes treatment for:

  • Pain or dysfunction of the bowel, bladder, and reproductive organs
  • Issues in the perineal region
  • Any musculoskeletal problem in or around the region of the pelvis

At Primus Physical Therapy, treatments are one-on-one with your physical or occupational therapist for 45 minutes in a private treatment room.

Diagnoses Commonly Treated

Diagnoses Commonly Treated
  • Pelvic organ prolapse
  • Incontinence, both urinary and fecal
  • Dyspareunia (painful intercourse)
  • Vaginismus
  • Pudendal neuralgia
  • Postoperative scarring, dysfunction
  • Ex episiotomy, post c-section, post-hysterectomy
  • Weakness and instability
  • Pelvic and lower back pain
  • Bowel dysfunction
  • Constipation
  • IBS
  • Interstitial Cystitis
  • Urinary retention
  • Overactive bladder
  • Coccydynia
  • Postpartum and/or pregnancy dysfunction and pain
  • Diastasis recti, post-cesarean pain
  • Endometriosis

FAQ's

FAQ's

We do ask that you fill out a few intake forms. The process should take approximately 15 minutes. We ask that you arrive at least 15 minutes early for your first appointment to allow time for paperwork. For your convenience, you can download, print, and fill out these forms prior to your visit. If you bring the completed forms with you, you’ll save time in our waiting room. 

Wear comfortable clothes and shoes that allow free movement, and keep in mind, for certain treatments, your therapist may need to access the skin at the affected joint or area. Athletic shoes or sneakers are recommended for your appointment. You are welcome to bring a change of clothes.

Each session is 45 minutes. 

Almost every patient will be instructed on a home exercise program and provided instructions to carry out the program at home.

You will collaborate with your therapist to determine the number of visits and frequency. The number of treatments will vary depending on the problem and the individual. After a thorough assessment, the physical therapist will discuss their treatment plan for the rehabilitation process. (*note: some insurances allow preapproval for a certain number of visits. Your front desk billing team will assist you with that process. 

The therapist who performs your evaluation will design your treatment plan, which can be easily followed and progressed by any of our other therapists. We make every effort to schedule you with the therapist of your preference. 

Physical and occupational therapists are healthcare professionals who specialize in movement. In the outpatient setting, they both treat from head to toe with a focus on restoration. Both disciplines may utilize exercise, manual techniques, mobilization, adaptation, and modalities. Individual specialization, strategies, and skills differ from therapist to therapist. 

Primus is proud to have both physical and occupational therapists on staff who have obtained and achieved advanced certifications in orthopedics, sports physical therapy, pediatric physical therapy, neurologic physical therapy, pediatric occupational therapy, geriatrics physical therapy, manual therapy, spine physical therapy, stroke rehabilitation, pelvic health, and dry needling.

Both physical and occupational therapists have completed additional training to include assessment and treatment of the spine, hips, and abdomen, muscles, ligaments, and skeletal structures. They often utilize habit and environmental training as part of their treatment. Both physical and occupational therapists complete the same training to specialize in this area.

Did you know that pelvic health therapists can complete internal examinations? Before your internal assessment,  your therapist will describe in detail the process of the internal exam and ensure you know what to expect. During the internal exam,  your therapist will observe and palpate how your pelvic floor muscles move and function. We don't use a speculum or stirrups and it is important to us that you are as comfortable as possible. An internal examination is often helpful If you do not wish to complete an internal examination, we can still provide you with excellent care.

No, an internal assessment and/or treatment is not necessary each time. You can work with your therapist, who will try to give you at least a one-session heads up so you can mentally/physically prepare in whatever way you need to. 

A: Yes, you can always come to the appointment if you are currently on your period. Your therapist can use a variety of treatments during that time to help you progress towards your goals.