Question 1

What is different about pelvic physical therapy compared to orthopaedic physical therapy?

Accepted Answer

A pelvic physical therapist is still trained in orthopaedic physical therapy.  The biggest difference is that we are also trained to assess pelvic floor muscles through the vagina or rectum to address pelvic pain, urinary, or bowel issues.  Pelvic physical therapists are also often trained in abdominal, visceral (organ), and fascial (connective tissue) manual therapy techniques.   We analyze important components of bowel and bladder health with other symptoms such as back and hip pain.

Question 2

How are pelvic floor muscles assessed?

Accepted Answer

Pelvic floor muscles are assessed through an internal pelvic exam via the vagina or rectum or with externally touching pelvic and genital structures.

Question 3

Do I need to have an internal pelvic exam?

Accepted Answer

You absolutely do not need to have an internal pelvic exam until you feel ready.  Other ways of assessing pelvic floor muscles could be externally by pressing on structures on the outside of the pelvis or you can opt for an exam with your clothes on.   We will review the benefits and restrictions of each exam so you can decide what is best for you.

Question 4

How is pelvic physical therapy different from a gynecologist exam?

Accepted Answer

Your gynecologist is looking at different structures and tissue health.  For example, they look at the health of your cervix, the positioning of your uterus and other internal organs.    Pelvic physical therapy exam primarily assesses the strength, mobility, and movement of your pelvic floor muscles.  We also assess tissue health of the vulva/vestibule and vaginal walls.  An exam by a pelvic physical therapist does not involve a speculum (tool inserted by gynecologists).  A typical pelvic floor exam involves inserting one finger vaginally or rectally to assess the overall strength, coordination, and relaxation ability of the muscles.  These muscles are important to assess when someone is having pelvic or hip pain, or is experiencing concerns with bowel or bladder health.

Question 5

What about insurance?

Accepted Answer

I am an Out of Network (OON) provider.  What this means is you will pay the fee on the day of each service provided.  If you would like a superbill I will provide one for each visit so you can submit to your insurance.  You are also able to use an HSA card for payment if you have one.   Being an Out of Network provider means there are absolutely no hidden fees than what I have listed on my website.  Being an Out of Network provider also means no one can cut off services and we can create a more individualized plan of care together.  A plan that works for your budget and time.   It also means I get to spend more time with you to get the most out of every appointment.

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FAQs

Frequently asked questions

What is different about pelvic physical therapy compared to orthopaedic physical therapy?

How are pelvic floor muscles assessed?

Do I need to have an internal pelvic exam?

How is pelvic physical therapy different from a gynecologist exam?

What about insurance?

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