PELVIC THERAPY
Do you have concerns regarding any of these areas?
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Loss of bladder or bowel control - accidentally leak urine or stool?
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Bladder or Bowel urgency or frequency - have difficulty making it to the bathroom in time?
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Constipation or difficulty emptying your bowels or your bladder
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Pain or discomfort in the pelvic area or tailbone
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Pelvic organ prolapse
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Difficulty having or enjoying sex
Pelvic floor muscles play an important role in pelvic organ support, bladder and bowel control as well as sexual function. Pelvic floor health can be affected by the following life changes:
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Weight fluctuations
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Dietary changes
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Change in activity level or a new exercise program
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Injury
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Surgery
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Cancer treatment
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Menopause or hormonal changes
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Pregnancy and delivery
Natalie Graham, PT
Natalie has worked in acute care, skilled care, rehabilitation and outpatient clinics treating orthopedic and pelvic conditions. She has provided instruction for pelvic floor credentialing classes through the APTA. Her diverse experience serves as a basis for developing superior personalized treatment.
All of these symptoms can be helped by Physical Therapy.
Don’t let embarrassment or difficulty discussing these issues keep you from seeking treatment.
Marie Long, PT, COMT, ASTYM
Marie has completed training through the APTA for the treatment of pelvic floor dysfunction. Marie uses an integrative approach to treatment which includes education, exercise, training in behavioral changes, manual therapy and direct pelvic floor techniques depending on the needs of the individual.
What to Expect When Coming to Connect PT for Pelvic Wellness
Our goal is to provide you with a treatment plan that takes into account your needs and lifestyle while empowering you to return to health and activity.
First 50 minute evaluation:
Each individual is unique and requires a personalized approach to treatment. We will listen to your concerns, obtain a thorough medical history and use a physical examination to create a customized treatment plan. The first visit will focus on education and helping you develop a clear understanding of your condition and the conservative strategies that will improve the function of your pelvic floor. We will address any questions you may have about your condition and your plan of care. When indicated, we may perform an internal pelvic examination and begin treatment on the first visit or a subsequent visit depending on your comfort level.
Follow Up visits include:
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Internal pelvic floor muscle examination if indicated
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Comprehensive assessment of your musculoskeletal system to determine any other contributing factors to your pelvic floor muscle dysfunction.
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Education on bladder and bowel habits - may include keeping a record.
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Bladder / bowel management program
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Instruction in pelvic floor strengthening and/or relaxation exercises
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Manual therapy to reduce pain, increase tissue and scar mobility
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Muscle training for abdominals and pelvic floor muscles using real time ultrasound to give visual feedback
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Current information and relevant resources to support your treatment plan
Final visit:
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Home program to maintain pelvic wellness and bladder / bowel management program
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Support and guidance in returning to activity
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Question and answers