Prairie Rehabilitation has physical therapists trained to treat women with pelvic floor muscle pain, urinary and fecal incontinence, and musculoskeletal pain related to pregnancy. Physical therapy can also help women following obstetric surgery.
The pelvic floor muscles are a group of muscles running from the pubic bone to the tailbone. They function to support our internal organs, such as the uterus and bladder, aid in bowel and bladder control and contribute to sexual appreciation.
Pelvic Floor Muscle Pain
Pain may occur if the pelvic floor muscles are in spasm from being held in a tightened position for too long. Causes of pelvic pain may include a history of pelvic or abdominal surgery or disease, emotional stress, postural problems, or physical trauma. Pelvic pain may interfere with even simple activities, such as sitting or lying down. Many treatment options are available to decrease muscle tension and restore normal functioning. These include biofeedback and relaxation training, correction of muscle imbalances through stretching and strengthening, and modalities such as ultrasound and electrical stimulation.
Urinary and Fecal Incontinence
The pelvic floor muscles can be weakened due to a variety of anatomical and physiological changes. These changes can be related to pregnancy, vaginal and cesarean section deliveries, obesity, estrogen depletion due to menopause, or nerve damage. Weakening of the pelvic floor musculature may contribute to incontinence. During your initial visit, a physical therapist will conduct a variety of tests to assess the strength, coordination, and integrity of the pelvic floor and abdominal muscles. Based on these findings, a personalized program is established and you will be educated on bladder and/or bowel function and how to strengthen your pelvic floor musculature.
Pregnancy-Related Musculoskeletal Pain
Women who are pregnant or who have just given birth experience a special set of problems that physical therapists are trained to identify and treat. We understand that the mother needs as much TLC as her baby due to the dramatic physiologic and anatomic changes that occur with, and immediately following, pregnancy. During pregnancy, some of the most seemingly simple activities strain the musculoskeletal system and cause pain. We can help identify 1) what changes in your body are contributing to the problem, 2) how certain activities can be altered to make it safer for you, 3) what birthing positions would be best for you, 4) and what exercises would be beneficial and safe for you to do during and after pregnancy.
To make an appointment with one of our women’s health therapists, or to receive additional information, please call (605) 334-5630 or (888) 372-2629. Our therapists are also available for brief presentations to interested groups. Treatment for Urinary and Fecal Incontinence is available at select clinics.
For more information, contact us in Worthington Avera, Worthington Oxford, Lakefield, Jackson, Fulda, Tea, Hartford, Harrisburg, Brandon, Sioux Falls, East Sioux Falls, West Sioux Falls or Central Sioux Falls.
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