As part of our physical therapy program, Magee-Womens, UPMC Hamot offers outpatient treatment options specifically for women suffering from pelvic floor disorders.
The pelvic floor consists of numerous muscles, connective tissue, nerves, tendons, and ligaments that:
Pelvic floor disorders can result from pregnancy, childbirth, heavy lifting, chronic straining or coughing, and exercise just to name a few.
Disorders or dysfunction of the pelvic floor may include:
Magee-Womens, UPMC Hamot, in conjunction with UPMC Rehabilitation Institute, offers a pelvic physical therapy program that provides individualized treatment to help women manage their pelvic floor symptoms throughout their lifetime.
Physical therapy for pelvic floor disorders may include:
Therapeutic exercise
Flexibility and/or strengthening exercises based on each patient’s individual needs. The goal is to always restore normal, pain-free activity.
Manual therapy
The gentle manipulation of tissue (muscles, connective tissue, scar tissue, nerves, etc.) that helps release restrictions and soften tense tissues.
Biofeedback
Allows patients to “see” their pelvic muscle activity at rest and tension produced during various strengthening or relaxation exercises. This helps increase awareness that they are using their muscles correctly, which is essential for correcting dysfunctional or uncoordinated muscle activity.
Functional activities
Addresses positioning, posture, and body mechanics, and includes:
Modalities