Pelvic health concerns are far too common and rarely talked about. Many men, women and children suffer silently without realizing that there are effective, evidence-based treatment solutions.

Pelvic floor dysfunction refers to a wide range of problems that occur when the muscles of the pelvic floor are weak, tight, or there is an impairment of the sacroiliac joint, low back, coccyx and/or hip joint. The tissues surrounding the pelvic organs may have increased or decreased sensitivity and/or irritation resulting in pelvic pain.

Did you know?

  • Urinary Incontinence is a symptom of pelvic floor dysfunction and IS TREATABLE for any age and activity level!
  • 2 out of 3 women with chronic low back pain have unresolved pelvic floor dysfunction!
  • People with digestive issues, recurrent urinary tract infections and painful periods often have dysfunctional pelvic floors!
  • Only 1 in 12 people seek out treatment because they are embarrassed to talk about it, or don’t know that help is available!

Pelvic Floor Physiotherapy can treat:

  • Bladder and bowel incontinence
  • Unexplained pain in your low back, pelvic region, hips, genital area, or rectum
  • Pre-natal & post partum pelvic problems
  • Pain during or after intercourse, orgasm, or sexual stimulation
  • Erectile Dysfunction
  • Prostate problems
  • Urgency
  • Painful urination, hesitancy, stopping and starting of the urine stream and/or incomplete emptying
  • Pelvic organ prolapse
  • Pelvic pain
  • Painful intercourse
  • Constipation, straining, pain with bowel movements
  • Chronic low back & tailbone pain
  • Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)

Pelvic Floor Therapists are also regular Physiotherapists, so they can treat all of your other aches and pains as well!

Available Monday and Thursday evenings with Adrianna Pirko, Physiotherapist.
Frequently asked questions:

  1. Does Pelvic Floor Therapy mean doing Kegels?

No, rehabilitation for the pelvis is much more involved than simply strengthening a muscle group. It involves restoring function—improving muscular support around the pelvis, improving behavioral/dietary habits, and re-training body movements to allow for optimal organ and structural function.  Also, Kegel exercises are also not for everyone: Pelvic floor dysfunctions can be caused by weak pelvic floor muscles OR tight pelvic floor muscles. With already existing tight pelvic floor muscles, Kegels may potentially do more harm than good!

  1. What does a Pelvic Floor initial assessment entail?

At your initial consultation your Pelvic Floor Physiotherapist will ask questions to get an in-depth history about your symptoms. Based on this history, your therapist will perform a thorough external examination, which may include: the mobility, positioning and strength of muscles of the spine, hip, abdomen, and pelvis, as well as areas of tissue restriction and tender points. An internal evaluation of the vaginal and/or rectum may also be performed to determine whether the pelvic floor is weak or tight. The internal evaluation is performed by gently inserting a finger into the vagina and/or rectum and palpating each muscle group to determine its level of function. Upon completion of the assessment your therapist will discuss with you the results of the assessment and propose a treatment plan.

  1. Do I have to have an internal evaluation?

No, an internal exam is not mandatory. An internal assessment is the “gold standard” for fully assessing the pelvic floor as it is the best way to properly assess what is happening with the muscles, organs and connective tissue in the pelvis. That being said, if you are not comfortable with this, you do not have to have this type of evaluation. Some patients are reluctant at first and then choose to do this after a few visits.  Your Pelvic Floor Physiotherapist is a highly trained, sensitive professional who will discuss any concerns you may have and tailor your assessment and treatment to your individual needs and goals.

  1. What is treatment like?

Once an initial assessment has been completed, your therapist will discuss treatment techniques, goals and anticipated outcomes for you, as an individual. Treatment may include:

  • Manual (hands-on) therapy not only to the pelvic muscles but to nearby joints and muscles including the abdomen, trunk, back and hips
  • Connective tissue manipulation
  • Scar mobilization
  • Myofascial release
  • Retraining of the brain and the nervous system
  • Education
  • Relaxation and breathing training
  • The use of treatment tools and modalities
  • Home exercise program/self care training
  1. What if I have my period? Should I cancel my appointment?

Our therapist is able to assess and treat the pelvic floor even if you currently have your period. It can actually be beneficial as the pelvic floor muscles and pelvic organs can be affected by the hormonal fluctuations, especially if you notice a cyclical relationship to your problem. If you feel uncomfortable being assessed or treated during your period, your therapist can provide assessment and treatment externally or you can reschedule your appointment, giving 1 business day’s notice.