Pelvic Floor Therapy
Pelvic floor therapy is physical therapy for the muscles at the base of the pelvis, and it can help with leaking, pain, pressure and weakness. Tia Williams, our Pelvic Floor PT, treats patients at Heights Physical Therapy from Gunnison, Crested Butte and the Gunnison Valley, with a compassionate approach that helps patients feel comfortable and supported.
What the pelvic floor is, in plain language
The pelvic floor is a group of muscles at the base of your pelvis, like a hammock. It supports the bladder, the bowel and the uterus or prostate, and it plays a role in sexual function. These muscles work with your deep core, your breathing and your hips.
Pelvic floor dysfunction means those muscles are weak, too tight or not coordinated, and it can cause problems that people often keep to themselves. You are not alone, and this is a physical problem physical therapy can address.
Who pelvic floor physical therapy is for
Pelvic health physical therapy is for women and men, and for people of any age, including before and after childbirth.
Men, including after prostate surgery
Pelvic floor therapy for men can help with leaking, pelvic pain and recovery after prostate surgery.
Active people
Some runners, skiers and lifters leak with impact or heavy lifts, or feel pelvic pressure. Many people notice this, and pelvic floor therapy may help.
Anyone with pelvic pain or pressure
Long-lasting pain, heaviness or trouble with the bladder or bowel are all reasons to ask about pelvic floor PT.
Conditions pelvic floor therapy may help with
Leaking and urgency
Bladder leaks with a cough, a jump or a sudden urge. See incontinence.
Pelvic pain
Pain in the pelvis, tailbone, hip or with sex, often from muscles that are too tight. See pelvic pain.
Prolapse and pressure
A feeling of heaviness or bulging in the pelvis. See prolapse.
Pregnancy and postpartum
Pregnancy and delivery put a lot of load on the pelvic floor. Support for the changes of carrying and recovering from birth. See prenatal and postpartum care.
Low back and hip pain
The pelvic floor works with the spine and hips. See back pain.
Weak pelvic floor
Some people feel a lack of support or control and need strength and coordination.
What your first visit is like
Many people feel nervous before pelvic floor therapy. Tia Williams, Pelvic Floor PT, takes a compassionate approach so patients feel comfortable and supported.
- You start with a conversation about what is going on and what you want to change
- You decide what feels right at each step, and you can ask questions at any time
- Your visit is private. An internal exam is something you talk through, and you can decline it. Ask Tia what to expect
- Together you make a plan with exercises you can do at home
- You are welcome to call first with questions before you book
Why Kegels alone are not always the answer
Kegels strengthen the pelvic floor, but not everyone needs strength. Some people have pelvic floor muscles that are already too tight and need to learn to relax, and more squeezing can make symptoms worse.
What pelvic floor therapy can include
Ask Tia what fits you.
- Pelvic floor muscle training for muscles that need strength
- Relaxation, also called down-training, for muscles that are too tight
- Breathing and core coordination
- Manual therapy
- Bladder and bowel retraining
Questions before your first pelvic floor visit
Is there pelvic floor PT near me in the Gunnison Valley?
Yes. Tia Williams treats pelvic floor problems at Heights Physical Therapy in Gunnison, and welcomes patients from Crested Butte and across the valley.
Do I need a referral?
Call us and we will tell you what applies to your insurance, and whether you need anything from your doctor, before your first visit.
Related care
Ask Tia before you book
Starting is often the hardest part, and a call can answer what you are wondering. Tia Williams sees patients from Gunnison, Crested Butte and the Gunnison Valley. Call or request an appointment and we will find a time that works.
We see patients in Gunnison, Crested Butte and the Gunnison Valley, Colorado.