Pelvic floor physical therapy is a specialized area of physical therapy that focuses on the pelvic floor muscles and related structures. Pelvic health physical therapists evaluate and work with people experiencing a range of pelvic health concerns.
What pelvic health PTs may evaluate
A pelvic health physical therapist may assess muscle tone, coordination, strength, and flexibility in the pelvic floor and surrounding areas. They may also look at posture, breathing patterns, and movement habits. Evaluation and treatment vary significantly by individual — what is appropriate for one person may not be appropriate for another.
More than pelvic floor muscles
Pelvic health care often involves more than the pelvic floor muscles alone. The pelvis connects to the hips, lower back, abdomen, and core. A pelvic health physical therapist may consider how these areas work together and how they contribute to a person's symptoms.
How someone might prepare for an appointment
Before a pelvic health appointment, it can help to:
- Write down the symptoms you've been experiencing and how long you've noticed them
- Note what seems to make symptoms better or worse, if you've noticed any patterns
- List questions you want to ask
- Bring relevant medical history, if you have any
Tracking your symptoms over time before an appointment can give you and your provider more information to work with. Learning how to track pelvic health symptoms can help you prepare.
Finding care
If you're looking for a pelvic health physical therapist or other pelvic health provider, Pelvic Recovery's Find Care feature searches for nearby providers based on your location. Provider listings come from external sources. Pelvic Recovery does not independently verify provider credentials, clinical specialties, insurance participation, or new-patient availability. You should independently confirm services and suitability with any provider.
Pelvic Recovery provides educational and organizational tools and does not provide medical diagnosis or treatment. Symptoms can have many causes. Consider speaking with a qualified healthcare professional about persistent, severe, or concerning symptoms.
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