Pelvic Floor Physiotherapy

Pelvic floor physiotherapy can help patients improve control over bowel function and play a role in the treatment of IBS. This may help patients reduce the instances of conditions such as incontinence and incomplete evacuation. The coordination of muscle movement is an essential part of controlling our bowel habits.


A pelvic floor physiotherapist has a greater understanding of the pelvic floor muscles, bowel, bladder and pelvic organs. Physiotherapy can assist patients in improving the way their muscles work such as strengthening or relaxing specific areas.


The first step will involve an assessment and sometimes may include an examination of your pelvic floor. All treatment and advice provided is designed to help you achieve your goals and reduce your symptoms.


Conditions that a physiotherapist may help patients with include:

  • Pain in lower abdomen and pelvis
  • Constipation
  • Irritable bowel syndrome
  • Urgency (bladder and/or bowel)
  • Prolapse (vaginal and rectal)
  • Urinary incontinence (stress incontinence, urge incontinence)
  • Difficulty with emptying the bowel
  • Faecal urgency and incontinence
  • Inflammatory bowel disease
  • Pain with sexual intercourse
  • Pelvic girdle pain (musculoskeletal)


Pelvic Floor Physiotherapy Treatments:


When you see a pelvic floor physiotherapist at The Gut Centre you will be assessed and how your condition affects you and your daily life.


A treatment programme may include:


  • Bowel habit training
  • Defaecation retraining
  • Biofeedback
  • Pelvic floor muscle retraining
  • Relaxation
  • Ceasing or reducing use of laxatives/enemas/suppositories


Integrated Care:


Our pelvic floor physiotherapist works within our multi-disciplinary team in an integrated way to provide best possible care to our patients. Working closely with our team of psychologists, dietitians, as well as communicating regularly with the patient’s other medical professionals such as GPs and Gastroenterologists.


Appointments:


Treatments range from the initial appointment for 50 mins with 30min follow ups. The Physiotherapy will recommend a detailed treatment plan based on your specific condition.