What is pelvic floor PT? Dr. Hailey Jackson

What is pelvic floor PT? 

Pelvic floor physical therapy is a specialty under the physical therapy umbrella. Pelvic floor physical therapists treat muscles, joints, nerves, Fascia, and ligaments, just like other physical therapists; however, pelvic floor PT’s are specialized in the pelvic region. Within this specialty, there are subspecialties including but not limited to fertility, pediatrics, male, pelvic health, prenatal, postpartum, and peri- and post- menopause just to name a few. 

Why is pelvic health important? 

Public health is important because there’s a lot going on in the pelvis which means there’s a lot that can go wrong in the pelvis. The symptoms that patients come into our office to receive treatment for are often affecting their quality of life greatly. We see a lot of bladder, bowel, and sexual dysfunction, which can really affect people’s confidence and their relationships.

What can be treated by pelvic PT? 

Pelvic PT’s treat bladder bowel and sexual dysfunction as well as pregnancy and postpartum rehab and fertility optimization. A few examples of things we often see and treat include urinary incontinence, constipation, pain with sex, urinary urgency and frequency, low back pain, tailbone pain, infertility, prolapse, diastasis rectus abdominis, bedwetting, encopresis, post prostatectomy rehab, and post hysterectomy rehab.

Is pelvic PT just for women? 

No– pelvic floor PT is for men, women and children. We treat all at Texas Pelvic Health. 

How does a PT become credentialed to work in this specialty? 

Unfortunately, as it stands right now, PTs don’t get a lot of exposure to pelvic floor PT during PT school like we do neuro or peds. Becoming a pelvic floor PT requires specialty certification, many courses, and programs during or after the completion of physical therapy school.

What treatment techniques are utilized by pelvic PTs? 

Pelvic floor PTs utilize a variety of treatment techniques including manual therapy (hands-on treatment), dry needling, therapeutic exercise, pessary, fittings, and lifestyle management suggestions. Typically, your physical therapist uses a combination of the previously mentioned techniques during your plan of care. 

How long does it take to see changes at pelvic PT? 

This is a commonly asked question and depends on several things. First, how long have the symptoms been present? Typically, the longer your symptoms have been present, the longer your full recovery is going to take. That doesn’t mean it’s impossible! Other things that matter include diligence with your home program, stress management, and frequency of your appointments. 

Do you need a doctor’s referral to seek pelvic floor physical therapy services? 

In the state of Texas, you do not need a doctor’s referral to start physical therapy. However, if you choose to continue physical therapy after ten business days, you will need a signed plan of care by a referring provider (physician, nurse practitioner, physician’s assistant, chiropractor, or dentist). 

Where can I start with optimizing my pelvic health? 

My favorite places to start include drinking adequate water (60-80 oz/day), prioritizing sleep, getting daily movement in, and eating enough fiber (~30g/day). 

How can I schedule an appointment? 

If you resonate with anything listed above, we’d love to help you. To schedule an appointment, call 903-962-2600 or email hello@txpelvichealth.com. For more information you can visit www.txpelvichealth.com.