Top 10 Frequently Asked Questions about Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy
Q.) What is Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy?
A.) The Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy (PFPT) is a specialty within the field of physical therapy and rehabilitation that treats various diagnoses related to the bowels, bladder, or reproductive organs. Treatments are provided by a musculoskeletal therapist specially trained in these issues.
Q.) What are the pelvic floor muscles?
A.) The pelvic floor muscles are found in the bottom of the pelvic and function to control urine, gas, and stool, help support the pelvic organs, and aid in sexual function. Restoring proper pelvic floor and core muscle function is a key goal of PFPT.
Q.) What can I expect on my first visit?
A.) On the first visit, clients undergo an initial evaluation which includes history-taking, as well as an assessment of posture, breathing, strength, and range of motion.
We then discuss what we’ve found and what we think would be helpful to focus on in order to meet your specific goals and get you back to doing the things you love!
Q.) Do I have to have an internal pelvic floor examination?
A.) A thorough examination of the pelvic floor muscles gives very important information about what may be contributing to your symptoms. This is most commonly performed intravaginally with you lying comfortably on your back. Pelvic floor muscle function is assessed using a single gloved finger vs the use of a speculum (tool used for gynecological exams). It is only performed with full consent and does not have to be performed on the first visit.
Q.) What will my follow-up sessions look like?
A.) Treatment for pelvic floor muscle issues is not “just kegels”. Follow-ups target your specific deficits with posture correction techniques, meditation/relaxation strategies, core strengthening, hands-on techniques to release muscle/tissue tension/restriction, and exercises to improve comfort, muscle function, and movement patterns.
Each visit we check in and see how symptoms are improving, review how you’re feeling about your exercises, and progress what you’re working on to meet whatever goals we’ve established for you.
Q.) Where is treatment performed and what is the environment like?
A.) Due to the sensitive nature of the topics discussed and types of treatment provided, all sessions are conducted in private treatment rooms.
Unlike most gynecology offices, there are no beds with crunchy paper, fluorescent lights, stirrups, or speculums. Our treatment rooms have soft lighting, nice, padded tables, cozy sheets and pillows, and (most importantly) safe, trauma-informed, consent-based touch.
We are here to hold space for your story, trust-build, meet you where you are, and help you find healing for your body, mind, and soul.
Q:) How often do I need to be seen for pelvic floor physical therapy?
Ideally, we like to see clients 1 time per week for the first 3-4 visits. Though we can certainly schedule less often when schedule, travel constraints, childcare, finances, etc. are an issue. As you progress and become more independent with managing your symptoms, we decrease frequency to 1 time every other week (or even every 3-4 weeks), with the expectation that you remain very compliant with your home exercise program in order to get the best results.
Q.) Do I need a referral for pelvic floor physical therapy?
A.) No. Because of our advanced training and Doctorate level education, we now have direct access for client-care. This means you do NOT need a doctor’s referral to come see us.
Q.) Do you accept insurance to cover costs?
Britt Colston PT is a small self-pay practice and does not accept insurance. You may use an HSA/FSA card if they have one. There is also the option to call and ask your insurance company for reimbursement using a super bill. If approved, Britt Colston PT can provide a super bill to submit for cost reimbursement as a self-pay provider.
Q.) How long will it take to see results?
A.) Unfortunately, this is one of those, “it depends” answers. There are many, many factors at play when it comes to the speed and completeness of recovery. These include underlying medical, physical, or mental conditions, the length of time experiencing symptoms, motivation and compliance with home exercise, and more.
However, after performing the initial evaluation, our experienced therapists should be able to give you an estimated prognosis and timeline, meaning the likely course of how and when you should begin to see improvement in your symptoms. Most clients report notable improvement in symptoms in the 3-4 visits, but, quite often, even after one. An average plan of care is 8-12 weeks.
If you have any other questions or need clarification on something, we are here to help! Please reach out to our friendly staff and we can help guide you on your healing journey.