Bowel + Bladder Dysfunction
How can we help?
INCONTINENCE
Incontinence is ANY involuntary leakage of urine. Incontinence can be as simple as leaking urine from coughing to severe cases where you feel the urge to urinate and can end up not getting to the toilet in time. Pelvic floor physical therapy may be able to reduce the frequency and severity of your symptoms. This can be done by normalizing your pelvic floor muscle function and coordination. Incontinence can be caused by a weak pelvic floor, tightness, and uncontrolled spasming.
PROLAPSE
Prolapse refers to laxity within the support structures of the pelvis causing the bladder, uterus, or rectum to sit lower within the vagina. This is caused primarily by poor pressure management and pelvic floor coordination issues, but many things contribute. Physical therapy can be very effective for many women. Physical therapy can reduce symptoms and prevent the condition from getting worse. It may even be a better option than surgery. Book an appointment with Luna Physio to learn more about prolapse risk, the symptoms to look out for, and what treatment options are available. We are happy to help you with any questions that may arise in your particular situation.
Urinary Urgency / Frequency
Urinary Urgency/Frequency is the frequency with which you urinate, whether it be during the day or at night (nocturia), either in normal or lower volumes. Frequency can be accompanied by a feeling of urgency to void (urinary urge). Your physical therapist will conduct an examination to determine the cause of your Urinary Frequency or Urgency and also determine if you need to be referred for further tests. Your physical therapist will tailor treatments to strengthen and improve the function of your pelvic floor muscles and muscles based on your evaluation. Your physical therapist will help you manage your symptoms, reduce the need to wear pads, special undergarments, or incontinence medication, and avoid surgery.
constipation
Constipation encompasses any dissatisfaction with your bowel movements. It can be a lack of bowel movement, infrequent bowel movements, or difficulty passing stool. To help with constipation, pelvic floor physical therapy uses manual techniques, exercise programs, and diet and activity modifications. Connective tissue manipulation is a technique that releases connective tissue restrictions from the pelvic muscles. This includes the abdominals, inner thighs, groins, buttocks, low back, and groin. Manual release of the pelvic floor muscles (specifically puborectalis), relaxation exercises, and pelvic floor exercises are used to relieve tightness. These exercises help strengthen and restore optimal function. Lifestyle modifications, such as changing your diet and water intake, may also be recommended to help with constipation.
Hemorrhoids
Hemorrhoids are swollen veins located in the anus or lower rectum. Although hemorrhoids usually resolve in a few days, they can still be uncomfortable and distressing. Chronic constipation and straining of bowel movements are risk factors. A pelvic health physical therapist can assess your pelvic floor tension to determine the cause of your hemorrhoids and provide individualized treatment to reduce constipation, improve your breathing, and improve bowel movement mechanics.
Bowel/Fecal Incontinence
Fecal incontinence is not being able to control bowel movements or gas. Fecal incontinence ranges from unwanted passing of gas to a complete loss of bowel control. Pelvic floor physical therapy may be able to reduce the frequency and severity of your symptoms. This can be done by normalizing your pelvic floor muscle function and coordination. Incontinence can be caused by a weak pelvic floor, tightness, and uncontrolled spasming. Lifestyle modifications, such as changing your diet may also be recommended to help with fecal incontinence.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What can I expect on my first visit?
After your initial appointment is scheduled you will receive new patient paperwork via email. It is required to complete prior to your first visit in order to allow your therapist time to prepare for your evaluation. Arrive on time to your appointment in comfortable clothing - ideally; exercise shorts/leggings and a t-shirt. (Minimize layers as much as possible). Your first visit depends highly on your needs and where you are in your journey, but you can expect a comprehensive assessment of your back, hips, pelvis, pelvic floor (as needed and when you are feeling ready), and movement. We will discuss your goals and an initial treatment plan to get you back to living your best life.
Do I have to have an internal pelvic floor exam?
You can expect an internal exam, but that may not always be the case. Your therapist will check the pelvic floor internally because that is the only way to get the most accurate knowledge of structure and function. Not all patients need or are ready for this, so we may use external techniques first. Please communicate your comfort level so we can provide the best care. It is extremely important that nothing is forced, or rushed by anyone involved in your care. You will never be asked to do something you are not comfortable with. Not every appointment requires internal work unless that is part of your program.
Should I come if I’m menstruating?
Yes! We want to avoid gaps in your care. However, if you are uncomfortable, we can make adjustments. If you are having increased pain, or difficulty relaxing, we can work in different ways. Take note that it may be valuable to see what your organ function is doing if your complaints involve painful menstruation. We can help you work with your body.
Do you do “other" types of physical therapy?
Our physical therapists are trained with expertise in anatomy, movement assessments, and exercise prescription based on any impairments or pain you might be facing. We can provide effective treatments for pain in any joint - head to toe!
Do you take my insurance?
We are not contracted or "in-network" with insurance and we have reasons for that. Unfortunately insurance really limits our abilities to provide the best care for you. They don’t have your best interests at heart, but we do. This also helps us to reduce overall cost. Some insurance plans include “out of network” coverage. This is typically a percentage that your insurance company will reimburse directly to you. You will need to submit documentation to them, which we provide for you at no additional cost.
You may use HSA/FSA cards for your PT visits.
If you are willing to use cash for massage, lashes, a hair appointment, acupuncture, gym membership, which are all valuable, why not for skilled, one-on-one, doctoral level care? What is your quality of life worth? What would you pay to be able to do what you love again, be out of pain, or be “normal”? YOU are worth it! Your HEALTH is worth it! We understand that there are many financial situations, and do not want this to deter you from the care you need. All costs will be discussed up front. No surprises. If you have difficulty with the cost for visits, we are happy to discuss options with you.
What is the cost of a visit?
The cost of the initial evaluation is $185. Follow up visits are $156!