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Pelvic floor dysfunction is another name for aging, tired pelvic floor muscles that need a little help. The skilled physical therapists at Lehigh Valley Health Network (LVHN), part of Jefferson Health, are trained to offer that assistance.
Our physical therapists specialize in treating pelvic floor disorders, including urinary incontinence and pelvic pain due to various causes. By leading you through focused exercises, we can help you maximize your function and find much-needed relief.
What is pelvic floor dysfunction?
A woman’s pelvic floor consists of the pelvic organs as well as the muscles and tissues that support them. Over time, and especially after childbirth, these muscles weaken. When these muscles no longer provide the support you need, you may experience urine leaks or other symptoms related to a pelvic floor disorder.
These symptoms include:
- Generalized pain in the pelvic area that may get worse during your menstrual period
- Pain during sexual intercourse
- Frequent bathroom breaks
- Strong urge to urinate
- Bladder leaks (urinary incontinence)
- Bowel problems, such as constipation
Pelvic floor dysfunction in men doesn’t always look the way people expect. Symptoms can vary widely and often overlap. Some of the most common concerns include:
- Pelvic, groin or tailbone pain (aching, pressure, burning or throbbing)
- Urinary issues, such as urgency, leakage, difficulty starting a stream or post-void dribbling
- Bowel dysfunction, including constipation or pain with bowel movements
- Sexual dysfunction or pain during or after sexual activity
What is pelvic floor therapy?
Pelvic floor therapy is a noninvasive treatment for pelvic floor disorders. It includes physical therapy exercises aimed at strengthening your network of pelvic muscles.
At LVHN, our physical therapists are trained to help you maximize function and minimize pain with pelvic floor physical therapy techniques.
Pelvic floor therapy includes:
- Muscle strengthening and Kegel exercises
- Biofeedback, a mind-body technique that helps you train muscles
- Stretching and relaxation exercises
- Manual therapy methods, such as trigger point release and soft tissue massage
If pelvic exercises or other treatment methods aren’t offering the relief you need, your doctor may recommend pelvic floor repair surgery. Learn about the benefits of robotic pelvic floor surgery.
Types of pelvic floor dysfunction we treat
Pelvic floor therapy can improve symptoms of both common and complex pelvic floor disorders, including:
- Urinary incontinence (bladder leaks)
- Pelvic organ prolapse (including bladder, uterine and vaginal prolapse)
- Interstitial cystitis (painful bladder syndrome)
- Prenatal and postnatal pain (due to pregnancy-related stress on muscles, joints and bones)
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Pelvic Floor Therapy
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