You've made your first appointment for pelvic floor physical therapy and no doubt have questions about what will take place. Our physical therapists are specially trained and have extensive experience treating pelvic floor dysfunction. Here's what you can expect during your first visit to our office.
As part of your initial appointment, the physical therapist will conduct a comprehensive evaluation, beginning with a complete medical history. You will be asked about:
the state of your health in general;
the medications you are currently taking;
the nature of your problem and how it has an impact on your life;
the treatments you have tried to date;
the surgeries or procedures you have undergone;
issues specifically related to your problem such as the intensity of your pain;
what makes your pain worse;
how many times you use the toilet each day; and
whether it is painful to urinate, have a bowel movement or have sexual relations.
We understand that some of these topics may seem very personal and difficult for you to discuss. However, this information is very important as it will enable your physical therapist to thoroughly understand your problem, provide an accurate diagnosis and develop a personalized treatment program.
Next, the physical therapist will evaluate your posture and conduct a musculoskeletal assessment to see how well your muscles and joints move. In addition, an internal examination will be performed to check your pelvic floor muscles to identify factors which may contribute to or result from your condition. If at any point you feel uncomfortable or in pain, let your physical therapist know immediately.
Based on the information you share and the findings of the evaluation, a plan of care will be created for you. This treatment plan, which will likely consist of various components depending upon your condition, will be carried out during your following physical therapy sessions.
We encourage you to ask questions or voice any concerns throughout your treatment. Pelvic floor physical therapy is a relationship between partners. Working together, you and the physical therapist can help you meet your recovery goals.