Physiotherapy, or physical therapy, is a form of rehabilitation that focuses on improving pain and physical function by identifying and addressing sources of dysfunction. While physiotherapy is sometimes thought of as a hands-on modality, a significant portion of physiotherapy treatment typically involves education, exercises, and lifestyle adjustments.

Pelvic health physiotherapy, also referred to as pelvic floor physiotherapy, consists of the assessment and treatment of a variety of conditions in which the muscles of the pelvic floor play an important role. These conditions are wide-ranging and can occur across all ages and genders. A few of the most common conditions that can benefit from pelvic floor physiotherapy include:

• low-back, pelvic, or hip pain;
• urinary or fecal incontinence;
• chronic constipation or difficulty voiding;
• problems related to the menstrual cycle (including endometriosis);
• pelvic organ prolapse;
• dyspareunia (pain with intercourse), or other difficulties with sexual function;
• painful scars in the pelvic region, such as those associated with surgery or childbirth;
• diastasis recti abdominis.

Given the wide variety of functions that the muscles of the pelvic floor perform, pelvic health physiotherapy typically takes a holistic look at the person, which may include looking at movement habits, dietary and voiding habits, reported life stress, social influences, and breathing habits.

The initial assessment is an opportunity for you to share the story behind what brings you into physiotherapy and what you are hoping to get out of your sessions.

Once we’ve had a chance to discuss what brings you in, we typically get you standing and doing some simple movements as I observe how you move. For this part, it’s helpful if you are wearing shorts and a t-shirt, and have space to move around (if you are connecting from home), including stepping back far enough from the camera that I can see your head to your toes.

As part of the movement section of your appointment, we typically try out one or more movements to start addressing the challenge you are coming in with. You will likely be given this movement as an exercise to explore independently before your next session.

Absolutely! Pelvic health physiotherapy, in particular, is strongly encouraged for pregnant people. Pelvic health physiotherapists can help address pains and discomforts that may arise during pregnancy, and help you prepare for labour and birth (by whichever means you are delivering).

Prenatal yoga is often recommended for pregnant people for its movement and mindfulness qualities. One of the benefits of private yoga instruction is that it can be tailored to where you are in your pregnancy, how you are feeling, and what your goals are.

Once baby is on the outside, both physiotherapy and yoga can help you get back to moving in a way that feels good to you. I understand that your appointments may be punctuated by feedings and diaper changes, and I support you in finding your preferred balance between parenting and taking care of yourself. (This applies to parents of all ages!)

Online appointments provide multiple benefits:

• We avoid any increased risk of exposure to any illnesses to you and your loved ones, which can be particularly helpful for pregnant and newly postpartum clients as well as anyone at increased risk of complications from illness – you can choose what feels safe for you and your loved ones;
• It can be more convenient, particularly for caregivers and people with reduced energy;
• I can see the way you move in your home, which can give us greater insights into what may be contributing to your pain or challenges.

No worries! Feel free to reach out via the contact form on the Contact page, or book a free 15-min discovery call to see if my services are the right fit for you.