Struggling with bladder leaks, pelvic pain, or postpartum recovery? Pelvic floor therapy can help you regain control and feel like yourself again. Learn when it’s time to seek treatment and how it can improve your quality of life.
Contents (click to jump)
- What is Pelvic Therapy?
- When is Pelvic Floor Therapy Needed?
- Urinary Issues
- Pelvic Pain
- Bowel Dysfunction
- Pregnancy/Postpartum or Post-Surgery Recovery
- Lower Back or Hip Pain that Won’t Go Away
- Sexual Health or Prostate Concerns
- Who is Pelvic Floor Therapy for?
- What does Pelvic Therapy Consist of?
- FAQs About Pelvic Therapy
- FAQs About Pelvic Rehab Pocatello
- Final Thoughts
What is Pelvic Therapy?
Pelvic floor therapy is a type of physical therapy that focuses on the muscles, ligaments, nerves, and other tissues in the pelvic region. These muscles support your bladder, bowel, and reproductive organs. When they aren’t working properly, you may experience pain, incontinence, or other symptoms that impact daily life. Pelvic therapy helps by strengthening, relaxing, and retraining these muscles so they function the way they should, working together with the other muscles of your core.
When is Pelvic Floor Therapy Needed?
Not sure if pelvic floor therapy is right for you? Here are some common signs that indicate it might be time to see a pelvic therapist:
1. Urinary Issues
- Leaking urine when sneezing, coughing, laughing, or exercising
- Feeling the need to urinate frequently, including waking up at night
- Having trouble fully emptying your bladder
- Dealing with frequent urinary tract infections (UTIs)
2. Pelvic Pain
- Pain during sex, tampon use, or gynecological exams
- A constant or intermittent ache in your lower abdomen, pelvis, or pubic area
- Painful periods
- A sensation of heaviness or pressure, as if something is “falling out”
3. Bowel Dysfunction
- Chronic constipation or straining during bowel movements
- Not feeling fully empty after having a bowel movement
- Stool leakage or difficulty controlling bowel movements
4. Pregnancy/Postpartum or Post-Surgery Recovery
- Preparing for labor/delivery and managing symptoms during pregnancy
- Healing from a C-section or vaginal delivery, including perineal tears
- Managing diastasis recti (abdominal separation after pregnancy)
- Addressing pelvic scarring after surgery
5. Lower Back or Hip Pain That Won’t Go Away
- Chronic pain that hasn’t improved with traditional treatments
- Unexplained tension or discomfort in the lower back, hips, or glutes
6. Sexual Health or Prostate Concerns (Women & Men)
- Difficulty with arousal or orgasms
- Testicular pain or pain with ejaculation
- Erectile dysfunction related to pelvic muscle tightness
Who is Pelvic Floor Therapy for?
Men, women, and children. All people have a pelvic floor and most could benefit from pelvic floor therapy!
What does Pelvic Therapy Consist of?
Your first visit will include a discussion of your symptoms, medical history, and daily habits. A pelvic therapist may perform an external and internal assessment (only if you’re comfortable) to check muscle strength, coordination, and overall function. It is only after a thorough assessment that you will know what treatment is right for you.
What to Expect at Pelvic Floor Therapy
Treatment options may include:
- Strengthening exercises if muscles are weak
- Relaxation techniques if muscles are too tight
- Manual therapy to gently release trigger points
- Biofeedback to help you learn to control your pelvic muscles
- Lifestyle modifications, including diet and posture adjustments
Most people see improvement within 8 to 12 sessions, but your therapist will create a plan based on your unique needs.
FAQs About Pelvic Therapy
Is pelvic floor therapy only for women?
No! Men and children can also experience pelvic floor dysfunction. Pelvic therapy can help with issues like prostate-related urinary problems, bowel dysfunction, and pelvic pain.
Does pelvic therapy hurt?
Pelvic therapy should not be painful. Some techniques may cause mild discomfort, especially if your muscles are tight or irritated, but your therapist will work within your comfort level.
Can I do pelvic therapy while pregnant?
Yes! Pelvic therapy can help relieve pregnancy-related discomfort, prepare your body for labor, and improve postpartum recovery.
How do I know if I need pelvic therapy instead of just doing Kegels?
Kegels are not the right solution for everyone. If your pelvic muscles are too tight, Kegels can make symptoms worse. A pelvic therapist can assess whether you need strengthening or relaxation techniques. Also, if you have been doing kegels and the symptoms have not subsided, it’s likely not the right answer.
FAQs About Pelvic Rehab Pocatello
What makes Pelvic Rehab Pocatello different?
We offer holistic, one-on-one, hands-on care that considers your entire body, mind, and lifestyle. We are trauma-informed and believe in empowering our patients with education and support.
Do I need a referral to start pelvic therapy?
It depends on your state. In Idaho, you do not need a referral to see a pelvic therapist.
What conditions do you treat?
We treat a wide range of conditions, including urinary incontinence, prolapse, postpartum recovery, constipation, chronic pain (pelvic and anywhere in the body), and more.
How do I schedule an appointment?
You can schedule an appointment by contacting us. We offer a welcoming and private environment to help you feel comfortable during your therapy journey.
Final Thoughts
If you’re experiencing any of the symptoms mentioned above, pelvic floor therapy might be the missing piece to your recovery. At Pelvic Rehab Pocatello, we’re here to help you feel stronger, healthier, and more confident in your body. Contact us today to learn more or schedule an appointment!
I am honored to be a part of your journey as you restore your health from the bottom up!
Dr. Lacey White PT, DPT
