Many people experience symptoms related to the pelvic floor but are unsure what is normal and what is not.
Others may feel uncomfortable bringing these concerns up or may not even realize that physical therapy can help. The truth is that pelvic floor dysfunction is more common than most people think, and it can affect both men and women at any stage of life.
If you have been dealing with symptoms like leaking, pain, or pressure, it is important to know that you are not alone and that there are effective, non-invasive solutions available. Pelvic floor physical therapy is designed to address these issues at their source and help you return to feeling confident and comfortable in your body.
At Empower Physical Therapy, our team in Andover and Newton specializes in helping patients regain control, reduce pain, and improve overall function through personalized care.
What Is the Pelvic Floor and Why It Matters
The pelvic floor is a group of muscles located at the base of the pelvis. These muscles play a critical role in supporting organs such as the bladder, bowel, and reproductive organs. They also help control bladder and bowel function, contribute to core stability, and play a role in sexual health.
When these muscles are functioning properly, they contract and relax in coordination with the rest of the body. However, when they become too weak, too tight, or uncoordinated, a variety of symptoms can develop.
This is where pelvic floor physical therapy becomes important. It focuses on restoring proper muscle function, improving coordination, and addressing the root cause of symptoms rather than just managing them.
Common Signs You May Need Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy
Many pelvic floor issues go untreated simply because people assume their symptoms are normal. Below are some of the most common signs that your body may benefit from pelvic floor physical therapy.
Leaking Urine With Activity
One of the most well known signs of pelvic floor dysfunction is urinary leakage. This may happen when you:
- Cough or sneeze
- Laugh
- Jump or exercise
- Lift something heavy
While this is often dismissed as normal, especially after pregnancy or with aging, it is not something you have to live with. Leakage is a sign that the pelvic floor muscles are not providing the support or control they should.
Frequent Urge to Use the Bathroom
If you feel like you always need to go to the bathroom, even when your bladder is not full, this may indicate a pelvic floor issue. You might notice:
- Urinating more frequently than normal
- Strong urges that are difficult to delay
- Waking up multiple times at night to use the bathroom
These symptoms are often related to poor muscle coordination or overactivity in the pelvic floor.
Pain in the Pelvic Region
Pelvic pain is another important sign that should not be ignored. This can include:
- Pain in the lower abdomen or pelvis
- Pain during or after exercise
- Pain with sitting for long periods
- Pain during intimacy
In many cases, pelvic pain is caused by muscles that are too tight or unable to relax properly. Pelvic floor physical therapy focuses on reducing tension, improving mobility, and restoring normal function.
Pain During Pregnancy or Postpartum Recovery
Pregnancy and postpartum recovery can place significant stress on the pelvic floor. While some discomfort is expected, ongoing symptoms are not something you should have to push through.
You may benefit from pelvic floor therapy if you experience:
- Pelvic pressure or heaviness
- Difficulty returning to exercise
- Leaking after childbirth
- Pain in the hips or lower back
At Empower Physical Therapy in Andover, Dr. Demi Kraus, DPT specializes in pelvic floor therapy and has extensive experience helping women through pregnancy and postpartum recovery.
Feeling of Pressure or Heaviness
A sensation of pressure or heaviness in the pelvic area can be a sign that the pelvic floor is not adequately supporting the organs. Some people describe this as a feeling that something is falling or bulging.
This can be related to pelvic organ prolapse or general weakness in the pelvic floor muscles. Physical therapy can help improve support and reduce these symptoms.
Constipation or Difficulty With Bowel Movements
The pelvic floor also plays a key role in bowel function. If the muscles are not coordinating properly, it can lead to:
- Constipation
- Straining during bowel movements
- A feeling of incomplete emptying
Pelvic floor physical therapy can help retrain these muscles to improve coordination and make bowel movements easier and more comfortable.
Lower Back, Hip, or Core Weakness
Many people are surprised to learn that pelvic floor dysfunction can contribute to pain in other areas of the body.
The pelvic floor is part of your core system, along with your abdominal and back muscles. When it is not functioning properly, it can lead to:
- Chronic lower back pain
- Hip discomfort
- Poor core stability
Addressing the pelvic floor can improve overall strength and reduce strain on other areas.
Pain or Difficulty With Intimacy
Pain during intimacy is a sensitive topic, but it is an important one. This is often related to pelvic floor muscles that are too tight or unable to relax.
Pelvic floor physical therapy focuses on restoring normal muscle function, reducing sensitivity, and improving comfort.
This is a very common condition and one that can be significantly improved with the right care.
Why These Symptoms Are Often Ignored
Many people delay seeking help because they believe their symptoms are normal or something they just have to live with. Others may feel embarrassed or unsure where to turn.
The reality is that these symptoms are your body’s way of signaling that something is not working correctly. Ignoring them can lead to worsening issues over time.
The sooner you address pelvic floor dysfunction, the easier it is to treat and the faster you can return to normal activities.
How Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy Helps!
Pelvic floor physical therapy is a specialized form of treatment that focuses on improving the strength, coordination, and function of the pelvic floor muscles.
At Empower Physical Therapy, your care plan is tailored specifically to your needs. Treatment may include:
- Education about your condition and contributing factors
- Exercises to strengthen or relax the pelvic floor
- Breathing and coordination training
- Manual therapy techniques
- Guidance on posture and daily habits
The goal is not just to relieve symptoms but to address the root cause so that improvements are long lasting.
What to Expect at Your First Visit
If you have never been to pelvic floor physical therapy before, it is normal to feel unsure about what to expect.
Your first visit will include:
- A detailed conversation about your symptoms and goals
- An evaluation of movement, strength, and coordination
- A personalized plan based on your needs
Your therapist will ensure that you feel comfortable and informed throughout the entire process. Every step is explained, and your consent is always a priority.
At our Newton location, pelvic floor specialists Dr. Connor Racette, DPT, Dr. Morgan Kaufman, DPT, and Dr. Kailey Duerksen, DPT provide expert, compassionate care tailored to each patient.
Who Can Benefit From Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy?
Pelvic floor physical therapy is not just for one group of people. It can benefit:
- Women during pregnancy and postpartum
- Men experiencing pelvic pain or bladder issues
- Athletes with core instability
- Individuals with chronic pain
- Anyone experiencing bladder or bowel dysfunction
No matter your age or activity level, if you are experiencing symptoms, there is likely a solution.
Why Choose Empower Physical Therapy?
At Empower Physical Therapy, we understand that pelvic floor concerns can feel personal and sometimes difficult to talk about. Our team is committed to creating a comfortable and supportive environment where you can feel heard and understood.
With specialized care available in both Andover and Newton, you have access to experienced providers who are dedicated to helping you feel your best.
Our approach focuses on:
- One on one personalized care
- Addressing the root cause of symptoms
- Helping you regain confidence and control
- Supporting long term health and function
You do not have to live with these symptoms, and you do not have to figure it out on your own.
Take the Next Step Toward Feeling Better!
If you recognize any of these signs, it may be time to consider pelvic floor physical therapy. Getting the right care can make a significant difference in your quality of life.
Click here to schedule your appointment and start your path toward relief and confidence!
Newton:
715 Medical Center Dr STE 300
Newton, KS 67114
Phone: 316-283-7187
Andover:
338 S. Andover Rd STE 100
Andover, KS 67002
Phone: 316-348-2766
