Pelvic Floor Physiotherapy Treatment in Toronto

This is presently the ‘gold-standard’ when treating pelvic floor dysfunction. It involves various hands-on techniques such as: stretching, facilitation, soft tissue massage, mobilization as well as connective tissue, myofascial and trigger point release techniques to the affected muscles and tissue

As with other musculo-skeletal joints in the body, an individualized exercise program including stretching, strengthening, proper posture and breathing techniques are essential for overall pelvic health. Areas within the pelvic floor and other muscles surrounding the pelvis, thorax and lower limbs may be targeted.

This is a series of specific postures and breathing techniques that create a lower pressure system to the abdomino-pelvic area while reflexively recruiting the pelvic floor muscles. This can be helpful for improving or preventing urinary incontinence and prolapse conditions. It also helps with improving general posture and stimulates the sympathetic nervous system, which can result in higher energy levels and mood.

These are other forms of neuromodulation that stimulates the posterior tibial nerve at the ankle via electrodes placed externally over the skin (TENS) or via a fine acupuncture needle connected to a hand held machine that emits electrical impulses (PTNS). The stimulation of the nerve has been shown to be extremely effective in treating overactive bladder (OAB) in up to 80% of patients studied. It can also be helpful for those struggling with urinary or fecal incontinence.

This is another form of treatment that can help retrain weak or poorly functioning pelvic floor muscles. An electrical or mechanical device may be used to help provide auditory or visual feedback on how well or poorly you are using your muscles. This feedback helps you to recruit the muscles more effectively resulting in improved continence or pelvic pain symptoms.

Education is power! You cannot under-estimate the importance of knowledge. Many clients have improved their symptoms by simply understanding how various aspects such as lifestyle, diet, urinary and bowel hygiene can affect the pelvic floor. Understanding the anatomy and physiology of the pelvic floor, posture education as well as knowing how to deal with chronic pain symptoms are vital to your recovery.

It is important to review your voiding patterns with your therapist to ensure appropriate bladder and bowel hygiene. This is essential in helping to normalize your overall pelvic function.

This is also known as neuromuscular electrical stimulation (NMES). It involves the use of electrical impulses that help facilitate pelvic floor muscle contraction to improve strength. It can also be used to help with symptoms of pelvic pain and urgency.

This may include the use of heat, cold, trans-electrical nerve stimulation (TENS), interferential current (IFC), guided imagery, breathing and relaxation techniques. Your therapist will be happy to discuss these other options with you.