Pregnancy + Postpartum
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Diastasis Recti
Diastasis Recti can be a common condition that affects women both during and after pregnancy. This is caused by the separation of rectus abdominis muscles, which causes the connective tissue to stretch, leading to weakness in the midsection, and a visible gap in the abdominal muscle. To improve strength, control, function, and strength of the abdominal muscles, physical therapy is safe and effective.
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.
Pubic Symphysis Dysfunction
The pubic symphysis is a joint that connects your pelvis in the area of the pubic bone. Symphysis Pubis Dysfunction (SPD) can occur when the joint becomes less stable or even separates. A comprehensive pelvic examination can identify a pubic-symphysis separation or malalignment. Our physical therapists use gentle, effective techniques for joint mobilization and realignment to the pelvic joints. To stabilize the pubic joint, we also recommend progressive strengthening exercises. We provide instructions on how to maintain good body mechanics and prevent injury from occurring in the future. We have excellent results in treating this condition, no matter how severe or long-standing. Our patients are able to return their functional abilities to painless levels. Postpartum patients are able to have successful vaginal deliveries without any recurrences.
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.
Birth Prep
Our pelvic floor physical therapists are able to address many issues related to pregnancy and pre-birth. Our staff are expertly trained pelvic floor physical therapists who spend many, many hours studying the pelvic floor and how it interacts with the rest of the body. They are musculoskeletal experts and can address your pelvic floor’s role in pregnancy and childbirth as well as any potential issues. We will examine your posture, breathing, and patterns of activity. Then, we can create individualized treatment plans and recommend birthing strategies.
VBAC Prep (Vaginal Birth after C-section)
Pelvic floor physical therapy can play a crucial role in preparing for a vaginal birth after cesarean (VBAC). Our therapists can assess the muscles of the pelvic floor to ensure there are no issues that may impede effective pushing during delivery. We also address any residual scar tissue along the cesarean scar and surrounding abdominal tissues, which can improve pelvic floor function and motor control. Additionally, we provide education on proper pushing techniques and strategies, including the phases of labor, timing for an epidural, and effective positioning to assist with cervical dilation and the descent of the baby. Through an internal exam, we can also help improve the effectiveness of pushing without placing unwanted strain on the pelvic floor muscles and perineum.
Painful Intercourse
Pelvic floor physical therapy is an effective treatment for reducing or eliminating sexual and vaginal pain. Our safe, gentle techniques focus on addressing the underlying causes of pain and discomfort, helping women to experience pain-free, enjoyable intercourse. Our therapists work to reverse issues and unravel the web of pain by increasing pelvic blood flow, releasing trapped nerves and adhesions (scar tissue), relaxing and stretching tight tissue, correcting postural imbalances, restoring mobility, and melting away painful tender points and trigger points. Our goal is to tone and strengthen the pelvic floor muscles, restoring overall health and function to the pelvis.
C-Section Rehab
Physical therapy can be a powerful tool in addressing the pain and discomfort that can occur after a cesarean delivery. Our experienced therapists use a variety of techniques, including manual therapy, scar tissue mobilization, myofascial release, and stretching and strengthening exercises, to help reduce pain at the incision site, normalize pelvic floor muscle tone, decrease tissue hypersensitivity, improve core and back muscle strength, and retrain muscles affected by pregnancy and delivery for optimal function. Whether you had your c-section recently or years ago, physical therapy can help you achieve greater mobility, function, and strength in the abdominals, back, and pelvic floor. Don’t let pain hold you back, contact us today to learn more about how we can support you on your recovery journey.
Return to Exercise Postpartum
Exercise after giving birth is part of a healthy lifestyle. Postpartum exercise has been shown to be beneficial at all stages of life. There are many benefits to postpartum exercise:
-Tone and strengthen your abdominal muscles
-Boosts energy
-May help prevent postpartum depression
-Improves sleep quality
-Relieves stress
-Can help you shed any extra weight you might have gained during pregnancy
It is difficult to make the necessary adjustments when you become a mother. The internet can also be confusing and overwhelming with information about postpartum exercise. Let’s talk about returning to exercise after childbirth.
SI Joint Dysfunction
Sacroiliac dysfunction (SIJ), a lower back/pelvic condition, can be caused by joint stiffness (hypomobility), or slackness(hypermobility), at the sacroiliac bones in the pelvis. This condition can affect men and women of any age, but it is more common in females. Your physical therapist will evaluate your SI joint dysfunction to determine the extent of your pain. These findings will determine the treatment plan for you.
Low Back Pain
Your pelvis and tailbone are supported by muscles that include your back muscles, stomach muscles and glutes, and a small group of muscles located at the base called your pelvic floor. If you are not getting these checked out you are missing an important piece of the puzzle to your low back pain. We’ve known for a long time that low back pain and the pelvic floor are closely related. Many of our patients notice sciatica and other low back symptoms but they don’t realize that it could be due to their pelvic floor until they have their initial evaluation. To provide sustained relief from lower back pain, it is important to examine both the pelvic floor as well as the lower back.
HIP PAIN
A pelvic floor specialist might be able to help you if you have hip pain as the muscles of your hip are directly connected to your pelvic floor. Your hip muscles, pelvic floor muscles and core muscles must all work together to allow your body to move efficiently. Each muscle group should be strong and flexible. Your body could rely on the other muscles for stability or movement, eventually causing more pain or dysfunction. To determine if the primary cause of hip pain is in one of these areas, a pelvic physical therapist will perform an internal assessment. An individualized plan can restore mobility, stability, function, and functionality of the pelvic floor and other hip muscles. You can return to the activities that you love by correcting any underlying muscle imbalances.
Tailbone Pain
Tailbone pain, also called Coccydynia, can be treated by our expert pelvic floor therapists. Tailbone pain limits sitting and is problematic when you transition from sitting to standing. This is a common problem that we treat all the time. Don’t let your tailbone pain get you down. Let’s make you feel better! Schedule your appointment today.
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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!