Finding a physical therapist that specializes in women’s health can be difficult. It is a highly specialized area of treatment. Many women are faced with unique physical challenges that they try to convince themselves are “normal” and “expected” based on being female. Common examples include: discomfort in the abdomen, lower back, bottom, and hips, leaking urine when coughing, sneezing, or exercising, and pain during intercourse. Pregnancy brings another long list of symptoms and difficulties that can last long after the delivery. Check out our blogs on Diastasis Recti. These challenges, however, which can cause significant, ongoing discomfort, do not have to be tolerated. In most cases, they can be treated and improved upon with pelvic floor physical therapy. From mothers to athletes–college students to retirees–physical therapy can help increase your comfort and quality of life!
Start with a physical therapy women’s health evaluation, which includes visiting with a physical therapist and discussing the history of your problem(s), your experiences with pain, what you have tried, and your functional limitations. The physical therapist will assess your muscle strength, posture, and movement patterns. An internal pelvic floor assessment may also be completed, based on your comfort level and consent. After this information is collected you and your physical therapist will develop a treatment plan and goals together. These are the first steps in determining the best and quickest way to help you find relief and greater ability.
If you relate to this topic, and believe that you might benefit from a women’s wealth evaluation, please give our Watertown clinic a call, at 617)-926-2300 and ask for, Kimberly Breslin. We are here for you, and we are equipped to provide the treatment that you need, in a supportive and comfortable environment. This is generally something that is covered by health insurance under your physical therapy benefit. Check with your insurance carrier to see if you need a referral or prescription from your doctor.