Pelvic Floor Rehabilitation

Pelvic floor rehabilitation is a specialized form of physical therapy focused on the muscles, connective tissues, and surrounding structures of the pelvis. The pelvic floor is an important part of your deep core system, supporting the pelvic organs and contributing to bladder and bowel function, sexual function, core stability, and pressure management.

Pelvic floor dysfunction can contribute to a variety of symptoms, including:

• Urinary leakage, urgency, or frequency
• Difficulty emptying the bladder
• Bowel leakage or constipation
• Pelvic pain
• Coccyx, sacral, or sacroiliac joint dysfunction
• Pain with intercourse
• Pelvic organ prolapse
• Prenatal and postpartum pain and recovery following vaginal delivery or C-section
• Diastasis recti
• Pudendal neuralgia

Pelvic floor rehabilitation focuses on improving the strength, mobility, coordination, and function of the pelvic floor and its connection to the rest of the body. Treatment is individualized based on your symptoms, movement patterns, breathing mechanics, and goals.

What to Expect

Your initial evaluation will include an assessment of your symptoms, movement, breathing, core function, and pelvic floor muscles. Because some of the pelvic floor muscles are internal, an internal assessment may be recommended when appropriate. However, it is not required, and your comfort and consent are always prioritized.

Treatment may include:

• Pelvic floor coordination, strengthening, and/or relaxation
• Diaphragmatic breathing and breath coordination
• Deep core, hip, and glute strengthening
• Pelvic and hip stability exercises
• Thoracic mobility to improve rib cage and diaphragm movement
• Abdominal and pelvic soft tissue manual techniques
• Bladder and bowel health education, including strategies for managing urgency, improving bladder habits, and supporting healthy bowel function
• Education on posture, pressure management, and movement strategies

Pelvic floor symptoms don’t have to interfere with your comfort, confidence, or the activities you enjoy. Pelvic floor rehabilitation can help improve strength, mobility, coordination, and function while giving you the tools to better understand and manage your symptoms. If you’re experiencing pelvic floor concerns, consider an evaluation with a physical therapist to see how pelvic floor rehabilitation may benefit you.