Pelvic floor therapy can be a game-changer for many individuals dealing with pelvic pain, urinary incontinence, or postpartum recovery. Once you've scheduled an appointment, you might be wondering how to prepare and what to expect. Don't worry - we've got you covered. Here is your comprehensive guide to help you prepare for your pelvic floor physical therapy sessions.
What To Wear
Comfort is key when attending physical therapy sessions. You'll want to wear loose, comfortable clothing that allows the therapist to evaluate and treat you. Here are some suggestions:
1. Comfortable clothing: Choose clothing that you can easily move around in, such as t-shirts, yoga pants, sweatpants, or loose-fitting shorts.
2. Avoid skirts or dresses: While skirts and dresses may be comfortable, they can make it difficult for the therapist to check your mobility and the pelvic region.
3. Athletic shoes: Depending on what you are dealing with, your therapist may watch you walk in your shoes.
What To Expect
Every appointment with us is about an hour long, 1:1 with your therapist in a private treatment room. The first evaluation will typically include a conversation with your therapist about what you are dealing with and an assessment of the whole body, including the pelvic floor.
1. Discussion of medical history: Your therapist will ask you about your medical history, including any past injuries, accidents, surgeries, or pregnancies.
2. Whole body examination: Although the pain may only be in the pelvic region, our therapists will assess your whole body, head to toe, because it is all connected. Your therapist will begin with an external examination, looking at your spine, posture, and overall mobility. If appropriate and if agreed upon, your therapist will then have you change into a gown and will perform an internal evaluation of the pelvic floor, assessing strength, tone, and alignment.
3. Creating an action plan: Based on the evaluation, you and your therapist will work together to set goals and design an action plan to get you feeling better as soon as possible.
4. Education: Your therapist will educate you about your pelvic floor muscles and how they function, as well as teach you exercises and techniques to help improve their function.
Tips for Preparation
Here are some tips to help you prepare for your pelvic floor therapy evaluation and follow-up sessions.
1. Be open and honest: Don't be afraid to discuss your symptoms and concerns with your therapist. The more information you provide, the better they will be able to help you.
2. Follow your therapist's recommendations: Your therapist will design a personalized action plan, including follow-up appointments, exercises, or lifestyle changes to help improve your symptoms. It's important to follow their recommendations and stick to your treatment plan for the best results. In general with therapy, less is more. The small goals add up to the big ones, and it is the consistency with those small actions that make a big difference in the end.
3. Relax and breathe: At Auria Pelvic Health, we welcome you in a quiet, comfortable environment with warm lighting, where all appointments take place in a private treatment room. So breathe, relax and know we're here to help.
Pelvic floor therapy can be an effective treatment for pelvic pain, urinary incontinence, and other pelvic floor issues. By following these tips and knowing what to expect, you can feel more prepared and confident as you begin your journey to recovery. Remember, your therapist is there to help you every step of the way, so don't hesitate to ask questions or voice any concerns you may have!
Author: Dr. Sasha Speer, DPT, Pelvic Health Specialist
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8929 S Sepulveda Blvd., Ste 412, Los Angeles, CA 90045
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