Pelvic Floor Physiotherapy Toronto & North York
The Pelvic floor is a group of muscles and ligaments that attach from the public bone to the tailbone to support the bladder, uterus, and bowel. A strong pelvic floor is important to be able to control bladder and bowel function. Working together with a physiotherapist can over time strengthen the pelvic floor muscles to make them work effectively again through creating a treatment plan that works best for you.
What Are Some Common Causes of Pelvic Floor Weaknesses and Dysfunction?
Pelvic floor dysfunction refers to a wide range of symptoms that can occur when the pelvic floor muscles are weak, too tight, or when the bones in the pelvic region are not moving properly. As a result, causes of pelvic floor weakness can include one or more of the following:
- Childbirth and pregnancy
- Overuse of pelvic muscle
- Pelvic surgery
- Chronic low back/sacroiliac joint pain
- Aging and hormonal changes
A tight pelvic floor may lead you to experience one or more of the following:
- Pain with urination (pain when going to the washroom)
- Urinary urgency – Incomplete urination resulting in frequent visits to the washroom during your sleep
- Inability to prevent bowel and/or bladder leakage
- Constipation, straining, and perhaps pain during bowel movements
- Genital pains
- Pain with sexual intercourse or sexual dysfunction – this can present as pain with penetration, inability to have vaginal penetration, pain with or inability to orgasm, and pain with sexual stimulation
A weak pelvic floor can contribute to:
- Incontinence – the involuntary loss of urine or stool during or after activity. This includes leaking during sports, active movements, or with coughing and sneezing.
- Pelvic organ prolapse – when one of the pelvic organs starts to shift out of place. This can lead to heaviness or bulging at the vaginal or rectal opening. This is often associated among women after given birth. For the most part, the majority of women may think this is normal and don’t realize that this can be treated!
Key Benefits of Pelvic Floor Physiotherapy
Boosts Pelvic Organ Support
Pelvic floor therapy directly targets the muscles, ligaments, and tissues that support your pelvic organs, including the bladder, uterus, prostate, and rectum. It improves muscle strength to help mend injuries and ease chronic pain, whether it stems from old wounds, the strains of pregnancy, or those troublesome aches without a clear cause. Pelvic floor therapy plays a vital role in preventing and reducing symptoms such as urinary leaks, incontinence, and sensations of pressure or heaviness, which may indicate pelvic organ prolapse.
Without pelvic floor therapy, incontinence can become worse. The pelvic floor muscles can weaken or malfunction. Incontinence happens when physical movements or activities like coughing, sneezing, exercising, or lifting something heavy put pressure on your bladder, causing it to leak urine. It can also occur when you suddenly feel a very strong need to urinate but can’t hold it in long enough to reach a bathroom, leading to urine leakage. This may result in feelings of embarrassment and anxiety over potential accidents, particularly in social or work settings. People might start to avoid certain activities, exercises, or social events out of fear of leaking urine in public, which can significantly impact their lifestyle and reduce their overall quality of life.
Improves Control Over Bowel and Bladder
Engaging in Motion Care’s pelvic floor physiotherapy in Toronto offers a proactive approach to strengthening the pelvic floor muscles and improving neuromuscular coordination. The program provides science-backed strategies to effectively manage bladder and bowel symptoms, promoting long-term health. Over time, untreated pelvic floor disorders can contribute to the development of chronic constipation that can lead to hemorrhoids, anal fissures, and exacerbated symptoms of pelvic organ prolapse. Persistent incontinence can cause urinary tract infections, skin irritation, and sores. Moreover, the avoidance of physical activity due to fear of leakage can result in a decrease in physical fitness. Our pelvic floor physiotherapy in North York can provide relief from the constant worry about bladder and bowel control, which can have a profound impact on mental and emotional well-being.
Enhances Sexual Health
Adequate blood flow to the pelvic area is essential for sexual arousal and response in both men and women. For individuals experiencing pelvic pain or men with erectile dysfunction, the root cause may be traced back to issues with pelvic floor muscles. Motion Care’s pelvic floor physiotherapy in Toronto can help strengthen the pelvic floor and enhance blood circulation in the pelvic area. It improves muscle tone and control, enhancing sensation and sexual satisfaction for both men and women. As you work on your pelvic floor health and notice improvements, it can boost your self-confidence and result in a more fulfilling sex life and stronger intimate relationships. Our pelvic floor physiotherapy in North York can also be beneficial for those experiencing discomfort during intimacy, offering techniques and exercises that address specific concerns.
Supports the Journey Through Pregnancy
Pregnancy and childbirth are significant events that place considerable stress on a woman’s body, particularly the pelvic floor muscles. These muscles support the uterus, bladder, and bowel and play a critical role in childbirth, as well as in maintaining continence and sexual function. Motion Care’s pelvic floor physiotherapy in Toronto can assist with strengthening these muscles, making them more resilient and better prepared for the demands of childbirth. Stronger pelvic floor muscles can aid in the birthing process, potentially leading to shorter labour and a reduced risk of complications, such as tearing. Plus, our pelvic floor physiotherapy in North York teaches expectant mothers relaxation techniques to help them relax their pelvic floor muscles during childbirth, which is essential for a smoother delivery.
After childbirth, women may face a variety of physical challenges. One common issue is diastasis recti, a condition where the abdominal muscles separate, affecting core strength and stability. Motion Care’s pelvic floor physiotherapy in Toronto can assist in strengthening and realigning these muscles. Many new mothers also experience pelvic pain, which can be managed and alleviated through targeted exercises and manual therapy techniques. Sexual dysfunction, including discomfort during intimacy and decreased sensation, is another concern that can be improved with therapy focused on enhancing muscle tone and flexibility. Addressing pelvic floor health during and after pregnancy is crucial for preventing long-term issues with incontinence and supporting the organs in returning to their pre-pregnancy positions. It can also have significant emotional and psychological benefits and provide peace of mind to expectant and new mothers, knowing you are taking proactive steps to manage your health.
Who Can Benefit from Pelvic Floor Physiotherapy?
Individuals of all ages experiencing any of the above mentioned symptoms can certainly benefit from pelvic floor physiotherapy. If your quality of life is negatively impacted by any of the above issues, then you should consult with our Pelvic Floor Physiotherapist to see how you can benefit from a pelvic floor assessment. Motion Care clinic is conveniently located in North York near the intersection of Yonge & Sheppard.
If you are pregnant, consult with our Pelvic Floor Physiotherapist at our North York clinic (located at Yonge/Sheppard) for an assessment to create a customized plan to strengthen your pelvic floor to prepare in advance.
What to Expect in a Pelvic Floor Treatment?
An initial examination/assessment will involve an external examination of the pelvic area, lower back, external skin, fascia, and muscles of the abdomen, and inner thighs. It may also include an internal examination of the vaginal and/or rectal area (with your consent).
While an internal examination is not always required, it is highly encouraged to get a comprehensive understanding of your case in order to propose an effective treatment plan that will reach the best outcomes possible. Our experts in pelvic floor physiotherapy in North York will work with you based on your comfort level. Based on the assessment findings, an individualized treatment plan will be drafted for your review and approval before proceeding. Treatment(s) may include advice and education, exercises, and manual therapy.
Pelvic Floor Physiotherapy can seem daunting at first simply due to the sensitivity of the areas involved, so please don’t hesitate to call our clinic to set up a quick consultation for any outstanding questions you may have. We want to ensure that our patients are completely comfortable from beginning to end.
Pricing
- Initial
- 60 Min $160
- Follow-Up
- 45 Min $135