Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy: What It Is & Who Can Benefit

Pelvic floor physical therapy is a specialized form of care designed to strengthen and restore function to the muscles that support the bladder, bowel, and reproductive organs. These muscles play a vital role in daily life — helping control urination, bowel movements, and sexual function — yet many people silently struggle with pelvic floor dysfunction.

What Is Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy?

Pelvic floor therapy focuses on assessing, retraining, and strengthening the muscles, ligaments, and connective tissue in the pelvic region.At Radius Physical Therapy, our certified pelvic health specialists use evidence-based techniques such as:

• Manual therapy to release muscle tension and improve tissue mobility

• Biofeedback to help patients gain awareness and control of pelvic muscles

• Targeted exercises to rebuild strength, endurance, and coordination

• Patient education on posture, breathing, and bladder/bowel habits

This holistic approach helps restore balance to the body while reducing pain and improving function.

(Source: American Physical Therapy Association (APTA))

Who Can Benefit from Pelvic Floor Therapy?

Pelvic floor therapy isn’t just for new mothers — it’s for men, women, and children dealing with a variety of conditions, including:

• Urinary or fecal incontinence

• Pelvic pain or pressure

• Postpartum recovery

• Painful intercourse (dyspareunia)

• Constipation or bowel dysfunction

• Post-surgical recovery (e.g., hysterectomy or prostatectomy)

• Pelvic organ prolapse

For athletes, pelvic floor therapy can also improve core stability and reduce the risk of lower back or hip injuries.

(Sources: Mayo Clinic, Cleveland Clinic)

Why It Matters

Pelvic floor dysfunction can affect every aspect of life — from physical comfort to emotional well-being. Left untreated, symptoms often worsen over time. With the help of a licensed physical therapist, many patients experience significant improvements in pain, strength, and confidence after just a few sessions.

At Radius Physical Therapy, we believe in compassionate, whole-body care. Our team works closely with each patient to create a personalized plan that promotes healing, function, and quality of life.

References

• American Physical Therapy Association (APTA) – Pelvic Health Physical Therapy

• Mayo Clinic – Pelvic Floor Dysfunction Overview

• Cleveland Clinic – Pelvic Health Rehabilitation