By Jovie Murtha, Women’s Health Physical Therapist
Despite the busy holiday season, I was hoping we could sit down and have a fireside chat about all those burning questions that many of you have asked about women’s health physical therapy. Due to the nature of my job, no question is off limits, and no question surprises me. I treat all types of women’s health issues, including pelvic pain, pain with intercourse, pregnancy pain, incontinence and constipation. I am happy to rid the room of the elephant. Let’s talk!
Here are some of your most frequently asked questions:
“My doctor recommended that I come see you for pelvic physical therapy. What should I expect during the evaluation?” A physical therapy evaluation for pelvic floor dysfunction is not entirely different than an evaluation for any musculoskeletal issue. We sit in a private, comfortable room and discuss your symptoms. Yes, I do ask some personal questions about your urological and gynecological health. Together, we review tests and procedures that you may have had performed. Do I do an internal pelvic floor examination? Yes, but only with your permission. This allows me to obtain information about what may be causing your symptoms. The more I can learn objectively about you, the more successful your treatment will be. I do not use a speculum or any tools during your evaluation. During the exam, I am extremely respectful of your privacy and modesty. The examination can be terminated at any time
“What are you looking for, exactly?” Pelvic floor dysfunction is multifactorial. The pelvic floor muscle is a sling-like group of muscles that sits in your pelvis. When you contract the muscle, it closes the openings to the urethra, vagina, and rectum. This keeps things from coming out that aren’t supposed to come out, like urine, stool, and your pelvic organs. When the muscle is relaxed, it allows you to have pain-free intercourse, bowel movements, and urination. When I examine the pelvic floor, I am determining the muscle’s ability to contract and relax normally. I am also looking at the integrity of the muscle itself. Are there trigger points or muscle spasms present? What area is painful for you? Do both sides of the muscle work equally? Is one side of the muscle stronger? Any scar tissue noted? I will also be examining the position of your pelvic organs and looking at your core. Is your abdomen firm or tender? Have you had any abdominal, spinal or hip surgeries that may be affecting your pelvic floor? I will assess and feel the skin, fascia, and muscles in all of these areas to determine if there are any restrictions. Sit tall, because I will be looking at your posture as well.
“What happens after I see you?” After your evaluation, we will sit and talk at length about my findings and what we can do to help you. I will give you recommendations and a home program on day one so you can begin your healing. We will discuss and agree upon a treatment plan that is best for you. I will also communicate my findings to your doctor, so we can create your personalized health care team.
A women’s health physical therapy evaluation is very valuable to both the clinician and the patient. Our patients feel empowered and they learn quite a bit about their own body. By the end of the hour, you will feel very comfortable and ready to begin your journey to better health.
For more answers to your women’s health questions, read my article next month in Healthy Cells Magazine®.
Physical therapy for women’s health issues is available at Accelerated Rehabilitation. Physical therapist Jovie Murtha is relentless in her mission to help women conquer pain and discomfort so they can be more active. For more information, contact jovie.murtha@acceleratedrehab.com or please call 309-683-6900.