What to Expect in a Pelvic Floor Evaluation with the Renew Health team in Western MA?
What to Expect in a Pelvic Floor Evaluation with Renew Health in Western MA?
“There is PT for…that?!” People typically have heard of physical therapy in various settings and for various body parts. A lot of our community in East Longmeadow, MA and the surrounding Western MA area have never heard of pelvic floor physical therapy before. And, we can’t blame them.
Pelvic floor therapy is an area of specialty that is not talked about enough! We often joke in our practice that we’re ready to discuss pelvic health with anyone willing to lend an ear!
Initial Consultation:
During the initial session, our primary focus is on gathering information. This is more than just understanding your symptoms; we want to get to know you as an individual. This comprehensive session takes place in a private treatment room where we address any concerns you may have. We talk about various pelvic health concerns such as urinary and bowel habits, sexual health, gynecological well-being, pain experiences, daily activities, and exercise routines. We want to know you as a person and really understand your goals!
External Assessment:
Following the information gathering phase, the therapist proceeds with an external assessment, typically covering the following areas:
Posture and pelvic alignment examination
Evaluation of body mechanics, especially pertinent for those caring for children or engaging in weightlifting
Examination of the abdominal wall for tenderness or trigger points
Assessment for conditions like diastasis recti or abdominal separation, as well as cesarean scar evaluation
Evaluation of breathing patterns and pressure management
Analysis of external hip muscles (including buttocks and inner thighs), abdominal, lower back, and hip strength, coordination, and endurance
Observation and assessment of pelvic floor muscles externally
Looking at various movement patterns: hinge, squat, push, pull, etc.
Internal Assessment (with consent):
Only with your consent, an internal assessment is conducted, looking at pelvic floor tension, tone, coordination, etc via the vaginal or rectal canal. It's essential to note that this assessment differs from a gynecological pelvic exam; there are no stirrups or speculums involved. While lying comfortably on your back, a gloved, lubricated finger is gently inserted to assess muscle function, tone, and tenderness. In cases where rear-related issues are present (such as bowel or tailbone pain), an internal rectal assessment may be considered with your consent.
Education:
Following the assessment, our focus shifts to education. We provide you with tools and exercises that you can immediately incorporate into your routine at home. Additionally, we discuss the plan for future treatment sessions. We follow a proven method, or three-step process, that has worked with the thousands of people that we have seen in our Western MA clinic. We schedule follow-up appointments to ensure progress and adjust the treatment plan accordingly.
Supportive Environment:
The initial session may feel overwhelming as you navigate through new information about these crucial muscle groups that may have been overlooked previously. Above all, we strive to create an environment where you feel heard, comfortable, and respected.
Curious if pelvic floor therapy is right for you? Schedule a free discovery call with our team to learn more about your options. 👇