Have you been putting off finding a solution to your pelvic health concerns because of the fear of the unknown… what will I be required to do? Will it be like a gynecological exam? Is an internal exam required? First of all, a pelvic health internal exam is much more comfortable that a gynecological exam – no stirrups or speculums involved! And an internal exam is only one portion of the bigger picture therefore it is NEVER a requirement. Read further for a more in depth breakdown of what your first session with your physical therapist might look like.
What Happens During A Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy Evaluation
Your physical therapist will listen to your story and ask targeted questions to find out more about your symptoms, your lifestyle, and other related topics. This is the time for you to share what you are going through – nothing is TMI in the pelvic health world!
A movement analysis will be performed to determine how effectively you are moving your body and to monitor symptoms while performing certain athletic and everyday movements.
A more targeted look at your lower back and hip range of motion and strength will be assessed to determine if there are contributing factors from these areas that are related to your symptoms.
If indicated, the option to perform an internal pelvic floor muscle examination may be suggested. The internal examination will include assessing the feeling or tone of the muscles, assessing the strength and the coordination of the pelvic floor muscles.
Based on findings, strategies to begin to improve your symptoms will be given as well as general tips and tricks to ensure that you are keeping your pelvic floor muscles in good health.
YOU know your body better than anyone and are in charge of your care therefore your opinion and worries matter so be sure to let you PT know what you are and are not comfortable with. Schedule a free discovery call with us if you would like to know more about the process and find out if we are a good fit for you.
This blog was written by our very own Pelvic/Women’s Specialist, Dr. Sam Greig.
