Physiotherapy and Osteopathy in the Greater Toronto Area
For physiotherapy and osteopathy treatments in the Greater Toronto Area, turn to Pelvic Health Toronto and Physiotherapy and Osteopathy.
Pelvic Floor Physiotherapy
The muscles of the pelvic floor are key contributors to bowel and bladder control and sexual function. They directly connect to the joints of our pelvis, and the muscles and fascia of our hips and low back. They also functionally coordinate with our diaphragm and jaw. So changes to these muscles, such as weakness or overuse, or direct injury, can affect many areas of the body.
Pelvic floor physiotherapy involves myofascial release, soft tissue manipulation and joint mobilization, as well as specific exercises to restore health and balance to the area.
Osteopathy
Osteopathy is a form of manual therapy that uses hands-on techniques to improve joint and muscle biomechanics, and positively affect the nervous, circulatory and lymphatic systems.
The focus is on the whole body, not just the injured or affected part.
Techniques include visceral manipulation, joint mobilization, cranial osteopathy and cranio-sacral therapy, myofascial release, and Manual Lymphatic Drainage.
What Can I Expect at a Pelvic Floor Physiotherapy Appointment?
It is important to note that you will be asked for detailed consent before proceeding with any part of the examination to ensure that you always feel comfortable. If at any point during your examination you start to feel uncomfortable, feel free to stop. Pelvic floor physiotherapy should only be helpful and comfortable.
The following steps are typically followed:
STEP 1: Discussion of your condition and medical history
This is rather straightforward and is a way to ensure that I have as full an understanding of what you are experiencing as possible.
STEP 2: External Examination
This involves an examination of your spinal and pelvic joints, craniosacral system, and visceral/organ fascial system.
STEP 3: Internal Examination
I will explain exactly what I will be doing and where there will be touching both before and during the entire exam. You will be asked to lie down on your back, with your knees bent, and we will test your pelvic floor muscles for various ranges of motion, and sensory and sensation awareness.
A Note About Menstrual Cycles:
A common concern that can cause anxiety for women is your menstrual cycle. You can 100% complete physical therapy during your period. It in no way bothers the provider, we are used to how bodies work and nothing harmful will happen if you complete physical therapy during your cycle.