Unveiling the Truth: Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy Myth Busters

In pelvic health, physical therapy, pregnancy by Compleo Physical TherapyLeave a Comment

Tired of misinformation and confusion surrounding pelvic health? You’re in the right place! In this blog post, our physical therapists in Waco debunk common myths about pelvic floor physical therapy to empower you with the knowledge you need to take control of your health and wellness. From Kegels to pelvic organ prolapse, get ready to discover the truth behind these often misunderstood topics. Let’s dive in!

1. In Pelvic Floor PT, Kegels are the only exercise to help. FALSE

    1. Kegels can be performed at LEAST 4 different ways (come see a Compleo Pelvic Floor therapist to learn how) but are usually done improperly initially- For example: if you have urinary leakage you will usually tighten the anal musculature- this will not help with leakage! Also, leakage with jumping may ultimately be the result of weakness and instability of the pelvis, not just the pelvic floor!
    2. Biofeedback treatment alone is no longer the standard of care for treating the pelvic floor. This technique over-emphasizes the direct strengthening of the pelvic floor without also strengthening the hips and abdominals for full functional stability.

2. Leakage = Weakness. FALSE

      1. Many people who have incontinence actually have a tight and weak pelvic floor. Leakage can also be due to muscle weakness. Either way, the urine can be forced out through the tight muscles or drop out of loose muscles. This applies to bowel leaks as well!
      2. Also don’t forget that leakage usually comes from increased pressure, so it may be that there is reduced movement of the diaphragm, and abdominals, AND/OR weakness of the abdominals/hips/pelvic floor.

3. You have to do an internal vaginal/rectal exam to do pelvic floor therapy. FALSE

    1. A pelvic exam can give lots of information for treatment BUT if it makes you uncomfortable you can make good progress with treatment using verbal cues and other stretches/exercises without undressing. We almost always defer the exam until the 2nd or 3rd visit to allow for rapport between patient and therapist as well as to decide if it is a good addition to treatment. It is very important that this is a decision made by the patient and therapist in order for it to be helpful for treatment.Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy For Pregnant

4. You should wait until after having the baby to see a pelvic floor therapist. FALSE

    1. Pelvic Floor therapy is beneficial for every person having bowel, bladder, or sexual issues as well as HIP AND ABDOMINAL PAIN. These may be common during pregnancy but should not be considered normal until all musculoskeletal issues are ruled out. Included in these issues are: round ligament pain, hip flexor tightness, pubic symphysis shift, reduced abdominal activation, and poor posture. We are able to identify and address these in the clinic!

5. Pelvic organ prolapse (POP) can only be fixed with surgery. FALSE

    1. There are 4 grades of POP which can be the uterus, bladder, rectum, and urethra. If it is a grade 1-2 then pelvic floor therapy can reduce symptoms by 1-2 grades. If it is grade 3-4 you are usually a surgical candidate, but pelvic floor therapy can help manage symptoms AND help you improve support after surgery so that it lasts as long as possible!

Ready to separate fact from fiction and embark on a journey to better pelvic health? We hope this blog post has shed light on the truths behind pelvic floor physical therapy. Remember, understanding your body is the first step towards optimal wellness. If you’re ready to explore further or have any questions, don’t hesitate to reach out to learn more about physical therapy in Waco. Here’s to debunking myths and embracing a healthier you!

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