When people hear “physical therapy,” they often think of rehab after a sports injury or surgery. But physical therapy can also help with one of the most important (and commonly misunderstood) areas of the body: the pelvic floor.
Pelvic Health Physical Therapy is a specialized field of physical therapy that focuses on the muscles, joints, nerves, and connective tissue of the pelvis and core. These structures play a vital role in bladder and bowel control, sexual function, posture, breathing, and overall movement.
Understanding the Pelvic Floor
The pelvic floor is a group of muscles that sit at the base of your pelvis. These muscles support your bladder, bowel, and reproductive organs. They also work closely with your trunk muscles and diaphragm to help you move, breathe, and maintain continence.
When the pelvic floor isn’t functioning properly, whether the muscles are weak, tight/inflexible, or uncoordinated, it can lead to a wide range of symptoms that affect daily life.
Common Reasons People Seek Pelvic Health PT
Pelvic health physical therapy can help people of all genders and ages. Some common symptoms include, but are not limited to:
- Urinary leakage, urgency/frequency, difficulty emptying the bladder
- Bowel issues such as constipation, incontinence, or incomplete emptying
- Pelvic pain, hip pain, back pain
- Pain with sexual activities
- Core weakness or abdominal separation (diastasis recti)
- Pregnancy-related discomfort or postpartum recovery challenges
- Pelvic pressure or feelings of heaviness
- Symptoms of perimenopause and menopause
- Rehabilitation following abdominal or pelvic surgeries
These symptoms may be common, but they are not normal and you don’t have to “just live with it”!
What Happens in Pelvic Health Physical Therapy?
Pelvic health PT is much more than doing Kegels.
Your care begins with a thorough evaluation where your pelvic health physical therapist takes time to understand your symptoms, goals, medical history, and lifestyle. Treatment is always personalized and may include:
- Education about how your pelvic floor and core function
- Manual therapy to address muscle tension, joint restrictions, or pain
- Targeted exercises to improve strength, coordination, and endurance
- Breathing and pressure-management strategies
- Guidance on posture, movement, and daily habits
- Support for bladder, bowel, and pelvic health routines
Your therapist works with you—not just on your body. We are here to help you understand what is happening and how you can help yourself feel better.
Why Lifestyle and Education Matter
Pelvic health is influenced by more than just muscles. Daily habits like how you breathe, move, sit, lift, manage stress, hydrate, and use the bathroom all affect pelvic floor function.
That’s why pelvic health physical therapy combines hands-on treatment with education. You’ll learn how your habits impact your symptoms and what changes can support long-term results.
Is Pelvic Health PT Right for You?
If you’re experiencing pelvic discomfort, bladder or bowel changes, pain, or core weakness (or if something simply doesn’t feel right) pelvic health physical therapy may help.
You don’t need to wait until symptoms become severe, and you don’t need to have had a baby to benefit. Early care often leads to better outcomes and supports long-term pelvic health.
Pelvic Health Care at Better With Physical Therapy
At Better With Physical Therapy, pelvic health physical therapy is led by Dr. Shana, a Doctor of Physical Therapy with advanced training in pelvic health, orthopedics, lymphedema, and breast rehabilitation. Her person-first approach prioritizes comfort, education, and individualized care in a supportive environment.
Pelvic health is personal and your care should be too.
If you’re ready to learn more or take the next step, contact Better With Physical Therapy to schedule a pelvic health consultation.
(973) 791-8337
Main Website: BetterWithPT.com
Pelvic Health Information: BetterWithPelvicHealthPT.com
306 Main Street, Suite 12, Madison, NJ