Pelvic floor occupational therapy is a specialized field within occupational therapy that focuses on the assessment and treatment of pelvic floor dysfunction. While often associated with women's health, this branch of occupational therapy can benefit individuals of all genders and ages. From pelvic pain to incontinence, a range of conditions can disrupt the normal functioning of the pelvic floor muscles. In this blog post, we will explore who would benefit from pelvic floor occupational therapy and the reasons behind it.
Who Would Benefit from Pelvic Floor Occupational Therapy?
Women with Pelvic Floor Disorders:
Women experiencing pelvic floor disorders such as urinary or fecal incontinence, pelvic organ prolapse, chronic pelvic pain, or dyspareunia (painful intercourse) can greatly benefit from pelvic floor occupational therapy. Occupational therapists can help these individuals through therapeutic interventions, including pelvic floor muscle exercises, behavioral modifications, and education on self-care strategies.
Men with Pelvic Floor Dysfunction:
Although less commonly discussed, men can also experience pelvic floor dysfunction. Conditions such as chronic prostatitis/chronic pelvic pain syndrome (CP/CPPS), erectile dysfunction, and urinary incontinence can be effectively addressed through pelvic floor occupational therapy. Therapists can assist men in identifying and strengthening their pelvic floor muscles, improving bladder and bowel control, and managing associated pain and discomfort.
Children and Adolescents:
Pediatric pelvic floor dysfunction is a significant concern that often goes undiagnosed. Conditions such as enuresis (bedwetting), constipation, and pelvic pain can negatively impact a child's quality of life. Pelvic floor occupational therapy offers a comprehensive approach to treating these conditions in children, combining education, behavioral strategies, and exercises to improve bladder and bowel function.
Pre- and Postnatal Women:
Pregnancy and childbirth can lead to various pelvic floor issues, including diastasis recti (separation of abdominal muscles), urinary or fecal incontinence, and pelvic girdle pain. Pelvic floor occupational therapy can provide pregnant and postnatal women with exercises, postural education, and lifestyle modifications to support the recovery and optimal functioning of their pelvic floor muscles.
Individuals with Chronic Pain:
Chronic pain conditions, such as fibromyalgia, interstitial cystitis, and endometriosis, often manifest with pelvic floor dysfunction and associated pain. Pelvic floor occupational therapy can play a crucial role in managing pain symptoms, improving functional abilities, and enhancing overall well-being by combining techniques like myofascial release, relaxation techniques, and postural training.
Commonly Seen Diagnoses:
1. Urinary incontinence, urgency, and frequency
2. Fecal incontinence
3. Pelvic organ prolapse
4. Chronic pelvic pain
5. Dyspareunia (painful intercourse)
6. Chronic prostatitis/chronic pelvic pain syndrome (CP/CPPS)
7. Erectile dysfunction
8. Enuresis (bedwetting) in children
9. Constipation in children
10. Pelvic pain in children and adolescents
11. Diastasis recti
12. Pelvic girdle pain
13. Fibromyalgia-related pelvic floor dysfunction
14. Interstitial cystitis
15. Endometriosis-related pelvic floor dysfunction
Come back next week to take a closer look at pelvic pain and common exercises/strategies to manage pain and increase occupational performance! Give us a like and follow on Instagram @thepelvic_ot!
References:
1. FitzGerald MP, Brensinger C, Brubaker L, et al. What is the pain of interstitial cystitis like?. Int Urogynecol J Pelvic Floor Dysfunct. 2005;16(6):411-420. doi:10.1007/s00192-005