Do You Have to Do an Internal Exam for Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy? you’re in control.
Pelvic floor physical therapy is a rehabilitation speciality that requires additional training in order to treat. When the pelvic floor is not functioning properly (i.e. leaking, pressure, pain), the pelvic floor physical therapist aims to identify and address the underlying causes in a supportive and individualized way so each client can go back to doing what they love to do.
Does it include an internal assessment?
The short answer is: only if the client is comfortable with it. The evaluation can include both external and internal assessments, but an internal exam is absolutely never required.
Pelvic floor therapy can still be highly effective without an internal assessment. If the client prefers to not have any internal work performed, the evaluation can be modified to assess external factors such as movement patterns (3D movement screen), posture, breathing mechanics, and the function of surrounding muscle groups that influence the pelvic floor. Treatment is still incredibly beneficial because the pelvic floor works in unison with the diaphragm as well as muscles of the hip and abdomen.
With consent, an internal assessment can provide valuable information on how the pelvic floor muscles are functioning. We can identify areas of increased muscle tone, trigger points, weakness, or poor coordination. Gaining an understanding will help guide the treatment and ensure the plan of care is targeted to the client’s specific needs. Techniques are performed carefully and only performed when appropriate and with consent.
Here at Formation Physical Therapy & Performance, pelvic floor PT is ultimately about restoring function, reducing symptoms, and helping individuals feel more comfortable and in control of their own bodies. Every plan is personalized, and client comfort and consent remain our top priority throughout the process.
Pelvic floor issues are common, but they are never something that you have to live with.
If you’re experiencing symptoms like leaking, pelvic pressure, or pelvic pain and you’re unsure where to start, a conversation can help.
We offer a free discovery call to talk through your symptoms, answer questions about pelvic floor physical therapy, and help you decide if treatment at our clinic in Carytown is the right fit for you.