Ladies, Let's Talk Pelvic Rehab

You may find it comforting to know that one in four women, 20 years or older, suffer from a variety of symptoms and conditions that affect the pelvis, bladder and uterus region. Most commonly referred to as pelvic floor dysfunction, these conditions negatively impact the lives of women in many uncomfortable and, sometimes embarrassing ways.

“The group of muscles in the pelvic floor help to support our organs, allowing us to properly perform bladder and bowel functions,” explains Kimberly Haas, pelvic floor physical therapist of the Catawba Valley Medical Center (CVMC) Pelvic Health Rehabilitation Program. “Aging, childbirth, posture and injury can all result in dysfunction and painful symptoms that impact a woman’s quality of life physically and emotionally.”

The good news is that CVMC Pelvic Health Rehabilitation, offers successful relief of many distressing and painful symptoms associated with pelvic floor muscles including:

  • A strong urge to urinate
  • Not making it to the bathroom in time
  • Urine leakage when sneezing, coughing or engaging in physical activity
  • Using pads or adult diapers for urine or bowel leakage
  • Prolonging the urge to defecate
  • Getting up more than once a night to go to the bathroom
  • Painful intercourse
  • Lower abdominal region pain
  • A feeling of “heaviness” in the vaginal area
  • Straining when having bowel movements

“With this specialized area of physical therapy, your privacy and comfort are of paramount importance,” says Haas. “Our program is based on the compassionate support of a female provider with extensive training and experience in pelvic floor anatomy and dysfunction. No question or concern is too small.”

COMMON QUESTIONS PROSPECTIVE PATIENTS HAVE ABOUT PELVIC REHAB:

Do I need a referral?

Yes, first discuss your symptoms with your OB/GYN or primary care provider to rule out any underlying health conditions. Then ask for a referral to CVMC Pelvic Health Rehabilitation Program where we can help determine if you’re a good candidate for therapy.

What can I expect at my first visit?

We begin with a comprehensive review of yourmedical history and discuss your symptoms in detail. Then you’ll have an internal and external exam to evaluate the structure, position and function of your pelvic muscles. From there, we establish an individualized therapy plan that incorporates education and therapeutic modalities such as exercises, biofeedback, relaxation and manual therapy.

How long does pelvic floor therapy take?

While no patient’s therapy is alike, many women find successful symptom relief within six to eight one-hour sessions.

Why CVMC?

Our patients value a therapeutic approach that fosters open, woman-to-woman communication with sensitivity given to the emotional aspects of pelvic floor dysfunction. Our services are provided in a professional, private, clinical setting in the CVMC Outpatient Rehabilitation facility on the hospital campus in Hickory.

What conditions can pelvic floor physical therapy help?

Urinary and/or fecal incontinence

  • Constipation
  • Dyspareunia (painful intercourse)
  • Interstitial cystitis (chronic bladder pain)
  • Vaginitis
  • Pregnancyand post-partum pelvicpain
  • Diastasis recti (post-baby "pooch")
  • Endometriosis
  • Coccyx (disorders of the tailbone)
  • Uterus or bladder prolapse
  • Chronic pelvic pain
  • Adhesions of scar tissue
  • Vulvar pain
  • Post-hysterectomy pelvic pain

HERE’S THE BOTTOM LINE– You don’t have to live with pelvic pain or incontinence issues. Talk with your healthcare provider about a referral to CVMC Pelvic Health Rehabilitation. For additional information, or to schedule an appointment, contact us at 828.326.2131 or visit our website.

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