Is Your Pelvic Floor PT a Real Pelvic PT?

Pelvic floor Rehabilitation Specialist, Physical therapist or Occupational therapist ( PT or OT) are specialized fields requiring unique skills and knowledge. If you’re seeking help with your pelvic floor health, it’s crucial to ensure that your therapist is genuinely qualified and equipped to provide the care you need.

Here’s what you should look for in a pelvic floor specialist in rehabilitation and how to determine if they meet the necessary standards.

Comprehensive Evaluation of the Pelvic Floor

A qualified pelvic floor specialist should thoroughly evaluate your pelvic floor muscles. This includes:

  1. Medical History Review: Understanding your medical history, including past surgeries, childbirth experiences, bowel and bladder habits, and any current symptoms.
  2. Physical Examination: This involves both external and internal assessments. The therapist should evaluate the strength, coordination, and endurance of your pelvic floor muscles. They should also check for any signs of pelvic organ prolapse, muscle spasms, or tender points.
  3. Functional Assessment: Observing how your pelvic floor functions during different activities, such as coughing, lifting, or bearing down, is essential for a complete evaluation.
  4. Postural and Movement Analysis: Analyzing your posture and movement patterns to identify any contributing factors to your pelvic floor dysfunction.

Training and Credentials

Not all physical therapists or occupational therapists are trained in pelvic floor therapy. Here are some indicators that your therapist has the proper training:

  1. Specialized Education: Look for therapists who have completed courses from reputable institutions, such as the Herman & Wallace Pelvic Rehabilitation Institute. These courses cover various aspects of pelvic floor dysfunction, pregnancy and postpartum rehabilitation, urogynecologic conditions, and colorectal conditions.
  2. Certifications: Some therapists may have additional certifications in pelvic floor therapy or postpartum corrective exercise. These certifications indicate a deeper level of expertise and commitment to the specialty.
  3. Professional Memberships: Membership in professional organizations, such as the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA) Women’s Health Section or the International Pelvic Pain Society, shows that the therapist is dedicated to staying updated with the latest research and best practices.

Hands-On Treatment

Pelvic floor therapy is not just about exercises and education; hands-on treatment is a vital component. Effective therapy often includes:

  1. INTERNAL and EXTERNAL Manual Therapy: Techniques such as trigger point release, myofascial release, and internal muscle manipulation can help alleviate pain and improve muscle function.
  2. Therapeutic Exercises: Personalized exercise programs to strengthen and relax the pelvic floor muscles, along with other related muscle groups, to restore balance and function.
  3. Postural Alignment Techniques: Ensuring proper alignment and movement patterns to reduce strain on the pelvic floor.
  4. Breathwork Retraining: Teaching proper breathing techniques to support pelvic floor function and reduce tension.

Are You Getting the Care You Need?

Ask yourself the following questions to determine if your pelvic floor physical therapist is providing the care you need:

  1. Do they take a thorough medical history and conduct a comprehensive evaluation?
  2. Have they completed specialized training in pelvic floor therapy?
  3. Do they use hands-on techniques as part of their treatment approach?
  4. Do they create a personalized treatment plan based on your specific needs and goals?
  5. Are they willing to answer your questions and educate you about your condition and treatment options?

If you can confidently answer “yes” to these questions, you are likely receiving care from a qualified pelvic floor physical therapist. Remember, your health and well-being are paramount, and finding the right therapist is a crucial step toward your recovery.

5 Point Physical Therapy: Real Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy

At 5 Point Physical Therapy, we pride ourselves on being a genuine pelvic floor PT provider. Our therapists have undergone extensive training and are committed to delivering top-tier care. We ensure that each patient receives a thorough evaluation and a personalized treatment plan, incorporating hands-on techniques essential for effective pelvic floor therapy.

Moreover, 5 Point Physical Therapy is dedicated to advancing the field by training other professionals. We believe that by sharing our knowledge and expertise, we can help more patients receive the quality care they deserve. Our commitment to education and professional development ensures that our therapists and those we train stay at the forefront of pelvic floor therapy.

Conclusion

Your Pelvic floor Health can significantly impact your quality of life, but with the right care, healing is possible. Ensure that your pelvic floor therapist has the proper training, conducts a comprehensive evaluation, and provides hands-on treatment tailored to your needs. By doing so, you can be confident that you’re receiving the highest standard of care on your journey to recovery.

At 5 Point Physical Therapy, we’re here to support you every step of the way, with a commitment to excellence in both patient care and professional training. Start with a FREE 15 min Phone Consultation, we want to talk to you!