Do you have to use the restroom often or urgently? Do you leak urine when jumping or sneezing? You may have what 20% of American women suffer from; pelvic flood dysfunction. Many people go untreated.
Pelvic floor dysfunction occurs when the pelvic floor muscles are tight, weak or there is an impairment in the hip joint or even in the lower back. The pelvic floor is made of muscles and tissues that form a sling which goes from the pubic bone to the tailbone. This sling of muscles and tissues support the pelvic and abdominal organs, which helps control the bladder and bowels.
Many women experience pelvic flood dysfunction after pregnancy or childbirth but it can also be a result of trauma from a bad fall, surgery, poor posture due to chronic lower back pain or even infections that are never diagnosed.
Many women are referred to a physical therapist to help with the pain that is related to pelvic floor dysfunction. At Oklahoma Physical Therapy, Dr. Mackenzie Barnes, our trained women’s physical therapist will partner with you to create a customized treatment plan. Dr. Barnes understands that you may be nervous or uncomfortable about coming in for a consultation however with her empathetic approach, her listening ear and her knowledge you will soon feel more comfortable than when you arrived.
During the initial exam, Dr. Barnes will ask you questions that are geared to gain a greater understanding of your pelvic health. The questions she will most likely ask are related to urinary leakage, frequency of bathroom visits, any pain related to urination, bowel movements or even during sexual intercourse. The initial appointment is a duration of 60 minutes and will include a detailed history and evaluation of what symptoms brought you to seek physical therapy. During this time Dr. Barnes will provide explanations, answer any questions and discuss how physical therapy will help you alleviate the pelvic floor pain.
Also, during this initial visit, it is recommended that the therapist complete an internal pelvic exam. However, Dr. Barnes understands that some women are not comfortable with this and therefore she will never pressure you to have an internal pelvic exam. This exam allows Dr. Barnes to have a much better understanding of your individual issues which will help her to create the best treatment plan for you. Your treatment plan may include:
- Deep Tissue Massage
- Heat and Cold Therapy
- Myofascial
- Trigger Point Dry Needle
- Soft Tissue Mobilization (External and Internal)
- Connective Tissue Manipulation
Contact Dr. Barnes with Oklahoma Physical Therapy by calling 405-749-6281 or online at www.oklahomaphysicaltherapy.com/make-appointment/ to schedule your appointment so you can start enjoying life with less pain.