Physical Therapy for Postpartum and Pelvic Floor Problems

Life transitions such as childbirth and aging can bring significant physical and emotional challenges. New mothers often face issues like pelvic pain, muscle tension, diastasis recti, incontinence, and emotional stress. Similarly, natural aging can lead to comparable concerns, impacting mobility, comfort, and overall well-being. At our clinic, we take a holistic and effective approach to address these challenges, utilizing advanced techniques like Fascial Counterstrain and other targeted physical therapies. These innovative methods provide a more comfortable experience for our patients by eliminating the need for internal interventions used in traditional treatments.

Understanding Postpartum and Pelvic Floor Challenges

Postpartum Recovery: The postpartum period is a critical phase for healing and adjustment. During this time, women may experience challenges such as diastasis recti (abdominal separation), back pain, and joint discomfort. It’s important to acknowledge that each woman’s body heals differently, and personalized approaches are often necessary to ensure complete recovery.

Pelvic Floor Dysfunction: The pelvic floor is a group of muscles that support vital organs like the bladder, uterus, and bowels. These muscles are essential for core stability, continence, and sexual function. As we age or after pregnancy and childbirth, the pelvic floor can weaken, leading to issues such as urinary incontinence, prolapse, pain during intercourse, and persistent pelvic pain. If not addressed, these issues can significantly affect a woman’s physical and emotional health.

Integrative Pelvic Floor Treatment

Treating pelvic floor and postpartum problems with a holistic approach, including Fascial Counterstrain (FCS), offers a gentle, non-invasive solution. Our therapists can restore mobility, improve circulation, and reduce pain by releasing tension in the fascia around the pelvis, abdomen, and lower back. We also specialize in addressing C-section scar tissue problems using Fascial Counterstrain and other manual therapy techniques to reduce adhesions, relieve pain, and restore tissue mobility.

In addition to FCS, other manual therapies, such as myofascial release and soft tissue mobilization, complement the treatment by addressing muscle imbalances and soft tissue restrictions. Tailored exercises support the body’s recovery process, improving strength and function without straining healing tissues. Therapeutic modalities like heat therapy, cold therapy, or electrical stimulation can enhance healing by reducing inflammation and promoting tissue repair. This integrative, noninvasive approach facilitates comprehensive recovery, helping women regain strength, mobility, and comfort without invasive techniques or procedures.

Frequently Asked Questions about Pelvic Floor Therapy

What is Pelvic Floor Therapy?

Pelvic floor therapy is a specialized form of physical therapy focused on strengthening and rehabilitating the muscles of the pelvic floor. These muscles support your bladder, bowel, and reproductive organs. Pelvic floor therapy may include manual techniques, exercises, and education to help treat conditions like urinary incontinence, pelvic pain, prolapse, and postpartum recovery. This therapy is commonly recommended for women after childbirth, men following prostate surgery, and anyone experiencing pelvic dysfunction.

Does Pelvic Floor Therapy Work?

Yes, pelvic floor therapy is clinically proven to be effective for treating a variety of pelvic health issues. Many patients experience significant improvements in bladder and bowel control, sexual function, and core stability.

Benefits of Pelvic Floor Therapy

Pelvic floor therapy provides numerous benefits, including:

  • Improved bladder and bowel control
  • Reduced pelvic pain and discomfort
  • Enhanced sexual function
  • Faster postpartum recovery
  • Support for pelvic organ prolapse
  • Better core strength and posture
  • Relief from chronic constipation or pelvic tension

This holistic therapy is tailored to your specific needs and can significantly improve your quality of life.

Does Pelvic Floor Therapy Help Diastasis Recti?

Yes, pelvic floor therapy can help with diastasis recti, a condition where the abdominal muscles separate during or after pregnancy. Therapists use targeted exercises to rebuild core strength, restore alignment, and improve muscle coordination. Since the pelvic floor and abdominal muscles work together, strengthening the pelvic floor is a critical part of healing diastasis recti effectively and safely.

Is Pelvic Floor Therapy Covered by Insurance?

Yes, pelvic floor therapy is covered by health insurance, although coverage may vary depending on your provider and policy, so it’s important to check with your insurance company or therapist’s office for specific details.

Take the First Step Toward Recovery

At PDR, we’re committed to providing women with the support, tools, and specialized care they need to thrive. Our team is here to listen, understand, and provide personalized treatment plans that respect each woman’s unique needs and goals. Reclaim your health and strength with our supportive and effective postpartum and pelvic floor treatments.