FAQ

Pelvic floor dysfunction (PFD) refers to numerous conditions that affect the reproductive, gastrointestinal, urinary, neuromuscular, core stability, and other systems housed in and around the pelvis. PFD can include organ systems; connective tissue; and joint, muscle, or nerve issues. Because pelvic floor dysfunction encompasses so many systems and areas of the body, the symptoms can vary widely and can include:

• Urinary urgency or frequency
• Urinary or fecal incontinence
• Constipation or incomplete bowel movements
• Pelvic, abdominal, or bladder pain
• Pelvic organ prolapse
• Diastasis recti
• Pain during intercourse
• Low back, hip, SI joint, or tailbone pain

Because the symptoms of PFD are so varied, determining appropriate treatment is complex. In fact, a treatment approach for one issue, such as “Kegel” exercises, could actually worsen other pelvic health conditions! As such, it is critical to be evaluated by a highly skilled pelvic therapist. Our primary treatment goal is always to reduce or eliminate your pain and other symptoms so that you can enjoy your life more! To achieve this, PFD treatment often includes hands-on treatment in the office with exercises or other strategies to use at home. (We want you to be comfortable, so internal work is never required – please discuss any concerns with your clinician.)

Not every physical therapist or doctor has expertise in the treatment of PFD, which is why it’s so important that you always search for a specialist. At Grace PT, we will work with you to design an integrative treatment plan that improves your quality of life by addressing all of your symptoms (maybe even some you don’t realize we can help you with!), in an environment that feels safe and professional.

No two sessions are alike because they’re based on your own personal needs and where you are in your treatment plan. Your clinician will likely combine a number of treatment strategies. The initial evaluation might involve several assessment tests and questions to help determine your treatment needs. It will also include patient education to help you understand what’s going on in your body and show you what changes you can make at home to help with treatment. Home follow-up is an essential part of your ability to continue to feel better when you complete PT!

After the evaluation visit, your pelvic therapist will include treatments such as manual therapy on your low back, pelvis, hips or pelvic floor, stretching and strengthening exercises, postural adjustments, lifestyle and behavioral changes, and biofeedback. To make the most of your treatment plan, you are encouraged to always ask questions and share concerns throughout the entire treatment process – this is a partnership, and we are on your team!

Biofeedback is an excellent tool for PFD treatment. When performed with the guidance of a trained pelvic therapist, biofeedback can help you retrain your abdominal and pelvic floor muscles to work properly. This retraining can improve many issues, including urinary/fecal incontinence, chronic constipation, and even pelvic pain. Biofeedback can assist with strengthening or relaxing the pelvic muscles as well as learning correct muscle coordination.

Yes, Pelvic physical therapy is covered by insurance, just like any other physical therapy! At Grace PT we value access to affordable care and have in-network status with as many insurance companies as possible, including Medicare and BCBS BLUE HOME. Our administrative team will discuss your copay or co-insurance with you so that you know what to expect. If we are out of network with your plan, or if you are uninsured or have a health sharing ministry plan, please know that we offer extremely low cash pay rates in our effort to be an affordable option for you.