Women's Health Program - Pelvic Muscle Rehabilitation

What Is Pelvic Muscle Rehabilitation?

The pelvic floor is a group of muscles in your lower abdomen that help support your organs, provide stability for your core, and assist in breathing function. These muscles are also important for bathroom control.

Pelvic floor muscles can become weak like any other muscle in the body. They can also become painful if dysfunctional. The goal of pelvic muscle rehabilitation is to stretch and/or strengthen these muscles to help improve pain, core stability, and successful participation in daily or recreational activities.

How to Prepare for Your Physical Therapy Evaluation

** All assessment and treatment will be external only **

• Please have a parent, guardian, or family member present for the first visit to explain pelvic muscle rehabilitation and treatment expectations
• Wear loose fitting, comfortable clothing to allow for assessment by your physical therapist

What Should I Expect From Physical Therapy for Pelvic Muscle Rehabilitation?

• Your therapist may ask questions regarding:
  • History of female related pelvic or abdominal pain
  • Menstrual cycle/gynecological history
  • History of internal gynecological exam
  • Female product use
  • Bathroom habits or issues

• Examination will include:
  • Ability to activate pelvic floor and core muscles
  • Palpation externally of tender, painful or tight inner thigh and hip muscles
  • Breathing pattern assessment
  • Observation of movement patterns of the spine and hips
  • Overall strength and flexibility assessment

• Treatment will typically include:
  • Explanation of pelvic floor muscles
  • Instruction on proper activation of pelvic floor muscles and core stabilization
  • Proper breathing techniques
  • Stretches for tight muscles
  • Strengthening for weak muscles
  • Improving posture and core strength
  • Gradual return to daily, recreational, or sports activities