What Is Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy — And Do You Need It?

Pelvic floor physical therapy is a specialized form of physical therapy that focuses on the group of muscles located at the base of your pelvis — commonly referred to as the pelvic floor. These muscles play a vital role in supporting your bladder, bowel, and (in women) the uterus, and they help with functions like urination, bowel movements, sexual activity, and core stability.

Whether you’re dealing with chronic pain, postpartum changes, or urinary leakage, pelvic floor dysfunction is more common than you might think — and physical therapy can help.

Common Conditions Treated by Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy

Pelvic floor dysfunction can present in many ways, and it affects all genders. Here are some of the most common conditions treated by pelvic floor physical therapists:

In Women:

• Urinary incontinence (leakage with coughing, sneezing, or exercise)

• Pelvic organ prolapse

• Postpartum recovery (including diastasis recti, cesarian scar recovery, perineal pain)

• Painful intercourse (dyspareunia)

• Constipation and bowel dysfunction

• Pelvic or tailbone pain

• Return to exercise post-partum

• Post menopausal discomfort

In Men:

• Urinary urgency/frequency

• Post-prostatectomy incontinence

• Erectile dysfunction

• Chronic pelvic pain syndrome

In All Genders:

• Pelvic floor muscle tension or weakness

• Sacral or tailbone pain

• Painful sitting or pressure in the pelvic region

• Bowel/bladder issues with no clear medical cause

• Post-radiation therapy pain

Symptoms of Pelvic Floor Dysfunction

You may benefit from pelvic floor physical therapy if you're experiencing:

• A feeling of “heaviness” or pressure in the pelvis

• Pain in the lower abdomen, pelvis, or tailbone

• Leaking urine when you laugh, sneeze, or exercise

• Painful bowel movements or constipation

• Difficulty starting or stopping urination

• Pain during or after sex

• A sensation of incomplete emptying after using the bathroom

These symptoms are not “normal,” even after childbirth or with aging — and they are treatable.

What to Expect from Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy

Your first visit will include a thorough evaluation by a physical therapist trained in pelvic health. This may involve:

• A detailed medical history and discussion of your symptoms

• Observation of posture, breathing patterns, and core strength

• External and possibly internal assessment of the pelvic floor muscles (always with your consent)

Treatment May Include:

• Pelvic floor muscle training (learning how to contract AND relax your pelvic floor properly)

• Manual therapy (internal or external release of trigger points or muscle tension)

• Biofeedback to improve pelvic floor awareness and control

• Bladder or bowel retraining

• Postural and core strengthening exercises

• Breathing and relaxation techniques

• Education and home exercises tailored to your specific needs

Why It Matters

Untreated pelvic floor dysfunction can interfere with your ability to enjoy daily life — from physical activities to intimacy. Pelvic floor PT is non-invasive, evidence-based, and can drastically improve symptoms or even resolve them entirely.

If you’ve been told to “just live with it,” it’s time to seek help. Whether you’re dealing with postpartum changes, chronic pain, or urinary issues, pelvic floor physical therapy offers a path forward.

Have questions or want to know if pelvic floor PT is right for you?
Contact us today at RISE PHYSICAL THERAPY to schedule a confidential consultation with one of our pelvic health specialists.