Regain Control, Comfort, and Confidence in Daily Life
Pelvic floor symptoms can be hard to talk about. Leaking, pressure, pelvic pain, or difficulty with bladder and bowel control can affect everything from exercise to intimacy. If you’re dealing with pelvic floor dysfunction in North Ballard, Ballard Bridge and Northgate of Seattle, WA, Salmon Bay Physical Therapy can help you understand your symptoms and build a plan for better function.
Many people wait to seek help because they feel embarrassed or assume these symptoms are a normal part of getting older. It’s true that pelvic floor problems are common, but that doesn’t mean you have to live with them. Physical therapy can help address dysfunction in the pelvic floor to make day-to-day life more comfortable.
What Is Pelvic Floor Dysfunction?
The pelvic floor is a group of muscles that supports the bladder, bowel, and reproductive organs. These muscles also help control urination, bowel movements, posture, and core stability.
Pelvic floor dysfunction occurs when these muscles become too weak, too tight, poorly coordinated, or unable to relax when needed. While we often associate pelvic floor issues with women, particularly after pregnancy, they can affect anyone. You might notice issues after surgery, injury, or long periods of stress and tension.
What Causes Pelvic Floor Dysfunction?
- Pregnancy and childbirth
- Pelvic or abdominal surgery
- Chronic constipation
- Heavy lifting
- Repetitive straining
- Pelvic injury or trauma
- Muscle weakness, including in the hip, back, or core
- Changes related to aging or hormones
Symptoms That May Signal a Pelvic Floor Problem
Pelvic floor dysfunction can look different from person to person. Some people notice bladder symptoms. Others experience pain or pressure in the pelvic area, sometimes just during specific activities.
Watch out for these signs:
- Urinary leaking
- Frequent urination
- Urgency to use the bathroom
- Pelvic pain or pressure
- Pain with sitting
- Pain with intimacy
- Constipation or straining
- Low back, hip, or tailbone pain
The Role of Physical Therapy in Treating Pelvic Floor Dysfunction
At Salmon Bay Physical Therapy, we want to ensure you feel comfortable throughout the process. All treatment is one-on-one and takes place in a private space where you can freely share your symptoms. We’ll also perform a respectful, thorough evaluation in which we assess movement, strength, breathing, posture, and muscle coordination.
From there, we create a treatment plan that fits your comfort level, goals, and daily life. Techniques might include:
- Manual Therapy: Hands-on techniques help improve mobility and reduce muscle tension when appropriate.
- Pelvic Floor Muscle Training: Targeted exercises help improve strength, relaxation, and coordination in the pelvic floor muscles.
- Breathing and Pressure Control: Breathing strategies help reduce excess pressure on the pelvic floor during lifting, exercise, and daily tasks.
- Core and Hip Strengthening: Strengthening exercises help the hips, core, and pelvic floor work together for better support.
- Bladder and Bowel Education: Practical strategies help patients improve bathroom habits and reduce strain on the pelvic floor.
Why Patients Choose Us for Pelvic Floor Care
At Salmon Bay Physical Therapy, we know pelvic floor symptoms can have a wide-ranging impact, and we treat these concerns with respect, privacy, and clear communication. You’ll receive one-on-one care during every visit, during which we take the time to explain what’s happening, answer any questions you have, and adjust treatment to your goals and comfort level.
Whether you want to return to running, lift without leaking, sit more comfortably, or feel more in control, our team builds a plan around your needs.
FAQs
Is leaking urine during exercise normal?
Can pelvic floor muscles be too tight?
What should I expect during pelvic floor physical therapy?
Feel More Confident in Your Body Again
Pelvic floor dysfunction can affect daily life, but the right plan can help improve control, comfort, and function. If you’re looking for physical therapy for pelvic floor symptoms, Salmon Bay Physical Therapy is ready to help. Request an appointment at our North Ballard, Ballard Bridge or Northgate of Seattle, WA clinic today to get started.
Your Next Steps…
- Request An Appointment
- Receive A Custom Treatment Plan
- Work Hard and Progress In Your Recovery
- Recover & Enjoy Life Pain-Free
