Hello friends! It’s National Physical Therapy Month. Pelvic floor physical therapists are specialized in treating disorders of the pelvic floor muscles using physical therapy techniques. This week we are going to talk about how to find a pelvic floor physical therapist!
To start, you can search our four free searchable databases to find a therapist near you under Find a PT. You can also ask your doctor for a referral to a physical therapist near you.
When should you see a pelvic floor physical therapist? If you have any issues with peeing, pooping, or sex this can be a sign of pelvic floor muscle dysfunction that may be improved with physical therapy. A therapist can also help with pelvic pain, hip pain, back pain, and vaginal bulging/pressure.
When choosing a therapist near you, many factors may be important like location, availability, and pricing/insurance, but be sure to find a therapist that you are comfortable with. If you feel that your symptoms are not improving, talk with your therapist! If they don’t listen, this may be a good time to search for another.
It is common to have reservations about going to pelvic floor therapy because of fears of an internal pelvic exam (either vaginal or rectal). While an internal exam can give your therapist tons of good information, whether or not to have one is ultimately your choice. If you are not comfortable, talk with your therapist about alternative options.
After you meet your therapist, it’s important to talk with them to come up with a treatment pan together. Some good questions to discuss with your therapist are listed below.
Always remember that pelvic floor muscle dysfunction, although common, is not normal, but you are not alone—there is hope and help!
Want to learn more about your pelvic floor muscles? Here are some helpful resources:
Watch Netflix for Your Pelvic Floor at Pelvic Flicks
Visit our YouTube channel for more on the pelvic floor.
Learn more about the pelvic floor muscles with our book: My Pelvic Floor Muscles The Basics: Learn where the pelvic floor muscles are, what they do, and how they work
Sign up for our email newsletter!
Visit our Instagram page for more on pelvic health.
For providers, check our online courses to help your clients. Consider joining our Ambassador Program and most of our courses are included with your membership!
How to Pass the Women’s Clinical Specialist (WCS) Exam: Part 1 with Dr. Jamille Niewarra, PT, DPT, WCS
How to Pass the Women’s Clinical Specialist (WCS) Exam: Part 2 with Dr. Beth Shelly, PT, DPT, WCS, BMB-PMD
Pelvic PT Evaluation of the Pelvic Floor Muscles with Dr. Samantha Richter, PT, DPT, WCS
The 3D Pelvis with Hayley Kava, PT, MPT, Pelvic Floor Physical Therapist
Written by Emily Reul, PT, DPT