Owner and Founder of Embody + Mind Collective, Tesa Emmart, sits down to interview Dr. Sapna Patel, owner and lead physical therapist of Pelvic Therapy and Fitness.

Tesa: Today, we have the pleasure of speaking with an expert in pelvic floor therapy to shed light on this specialized form of physical therapy. Can you please start by explaining what pelvic floor therapy is?

 Dr. Patel: Certainly, I’d be happy to. Pelvic therapy, also known as pelvic floor therapy or pelvic rehabilitation, is a specialized branch of physical therapy that focuses on addressing issues related to the pelvic region. The pelvic floor, to give you a bit more context, consists of a group of muscles, ligaments, and connective tissues that provide crucial support to various organs in the pelvic area. These organs include the bladder, uterus, vagina, and rectum.

Tesa:  Thank you for that explanation. Could you tell us more about the types of conditions that pelvic therapy can effectively treat?

 Dr. Patel:  Of course. Pelvic therapy is a versatile field that can address a wide range of conditions. Some of the common conditions we treat include:

• Pelvic Pain: This can be chronic or acute discomfort in the pelvic region.
• Postpartum Issues: Addressing physical challenges that can arise after childbirth.
• Pregnancy: Providing support and relief to expectant mothers.
• Incontinence: Helping individuals regain control over bladder or bowel function.
• Pelvic Organ Prolapse: Addressing the descent of pelvic organs.
• Pre- and Post-Surgery Rehabilitation: Assisting in recovery before and after pelvic surgeries.
• Tailbone Pain: Treating discomfort related to the tailbone or coccyx.
• Low Back Pain: Alleviating pain in the lower back with pelvic therapy techniques.

Tesa:  It’s impressive to see the wide array of conditions that pelvic therapy can address. Is this type of therapy exclusive to postpartum women?

Dr. Patel:  Not at all. Pelvic therapy is not limited to postpartum women. It is an inclusive form of therapy that can benefit both men and women. Pelvic therapists are trained to specialize in conditions that affect individuals of all genders. So, whether you’re a man or a woman experiencing pelvic issues, pelvic therapy can offer effective solutions.

Tesa:  That’s important information to clarify. Can you describe what a typical pelvic therapy session looks like for someone who might be considering it?

Dr. Patel:  Certainly. A pelvic therapy session begins with a thorough evaluation conducted by a trained therapist. This evaluation assesses the condition of the pelvic floor muscles and identifies any dysfunction or weakness. It’s an essential step to tailor the treatment plan to the individual’s specific needs. 

Treatment plans can vary widely based on the diagnosis and the individual’s goals. They may include a combination of:

• Exercises: Targeted exercises to strengthen or relax the pelvic floor muscles.
• Manual Therapy: Hands-on techniques performed by the therapist.
• Biofeedback: Using technology to provide real-time feedback on muscle activity.
• Electrical Stimulation: Applying mild electrical currents to improve muscle function.
• Relaxation Techniques: Teaching methods to alleviate tension and discomfort.
• Lifestyle Modifications: Providing guidance on diet, fluid intake, and other lifestyle factors that can impact pelvic health.

Sessions are typically conducted in a private and comfortable setting, ensuring that individuals feel at ease during their therapy journey.

Tesa:  Thank you for demystifying pelvic therapy for us. It’s clear that this specialized form of physical therapy can make a significant difference in the lives of many individuals dealing with pelvic health issues.

Dr. Patel:  You’re welcome. It’s my pleasure to help raise awareness about the benefits of pelvic therapy and how it can improve the quality of life for those who seek its care. If anyone has concerns about their pelvic health, it’s always a good idea to consult with a qualified pelvic therapist for a personalized evaluation and treatment plan.