Pelvic Floor Physiotherapy

What is the Pelvic Floor?

The pelvic floor is the layer of muscles located at the base of the pelvis that helps to control urinary, bowel and sexual organ function as well as core stability. Did you know that 70% of people who suffer from low back pain also suffer from pelvic floor conditions? The pelvic floor muscles are not only involved in sexual function and controlling the release of urine and stool but also help to stabilize the trunk and assist with weight transfer during walking.

What is Pelvic Floor Physiotherapy?

Fun fact: Kegels are not everything! If you have a weak pelvic floor, Kegels are only one way to strengthen the muscles; however, some symptoms of pelvic floor dysfunction are actually related to a tight pelvic floor. In this case, relaxing the pelvic floor (the opposite of a Kegel) is necessary to reduce symptoms.

Pelvic floor physiotherapists can help identify the cause of your symptoms, including pelvic pain, leakage and weakness, as well as pregnancy and postpartum symptoms. At Active Balance Physiotherapy Studio, we provide comprehensive assessments that include a subjective history, a movement scan and other tests to help identify the source of your concerns. Like other muscles, we can improve the strength, endurance and coordination of your pelvic floor. Our pelvic floor physiotherapists provide you with an individualized treatment plan and additional resources that can help you get back to doing the things you love.

What Conditions Can Pelvic Floor Physiotherapists Treat?

Incontinence (Leakage of Urine and Stool)

Did you know that incontinence affects 1 in 3 females and 1 in 9 males despite not being a “normal” part of aging or pregnancy? Are you someone who experiences leakage of urine and stool when you cough, sneeze, laugh or exercise? Do you fear not being able to make it to the bathroom in time? These are symptoms that pelvic floor physiotherapists can help you improve.

Prolapse (Descending Pelvic Organs)

The pelvic floor helps to maintain the position of the pelvic organs including the bladder, rectum and uterus. Increased abdominal pressure, for example, when constipated or

pushing during labour can reduce the ability of the pelvic floor muscles to maintain the position of these organs. Pelvic floor physiotherapists can help you strengthen the pelvic floor while helping to improve your posture and positioning to support the descending organs.

Pregnancy/Postpartum

The physical changes of pregnancy, delivery, and caring for your baby may affect your body, thus it is important to optimize your pelvic floor and abdominal health before, during, and after your pregnancy. Pelvic floor physiotherapists can help you address any neck or back pain, hip or knee pain, shoulder pain, incontinence, bladder or uterine prolapse, diastasis recti, or pain during intercourse associated with pregnancy and post-partum.

AND MORE!