Blog Post: January 31st, 2022
Jamie Rabe, Doctor of Physical Therapy
According to the American Urogynecologic Society, 1 in 4 women over age 20 will experience some type of pelvic floor dysfunction including pelvic organ prolapse, urinary incontinence, or fecal incontinence in their lifetime.
Pelvic organ prolapse occurs when organs that reside in the pelvis start to drop down due to weakening of the pelvic floor muscles and connective tissues. Urinary incontinence is the unintended loss of any amount of urine from the bladder. Fecal incontinence, or accidental bowel leakage, includes involuntary loss of solid or liquid stool as well as involuntary loss of gas.
Pelvic floor physical therapists deal with the muscles in and around the pelvic floor and have had specialized training to assess and treat these muscles. Often, patients with pelvic floor disorders have concurrent hip, lower back, or sacroiliac joint pain. Pelvic floor physical therapists will assess these areas as well as the muscles of the pelvic floor.
You may be wondering, “who should see a pelvic floor physical therapist?” The answer is anyone with a pelvis! Anyone who has had issues with bowel or bladder function or pain in their pelvis should reach out and talk with a pelvic floor specialist. We would be happy to answer any questions and help determine which location is best for you and your specific needs.