Month: February 2024

Pessaries for Pelvic Floor Support

At TheraTouch Physiotherapy, we understand the importance of pelvic floor health and that is why we bring you the best relief. Pessaries are a non-surgical option for managing pelvic organ prolapse and urinary incontinence. Here’s what you need to know about this method:

What is a Pessary?

A pessary is a medical device inserted into the vagina to support pelvic organs such as the bladder, uterus, or rectum. It helps alleviate symptoms of pelvic organ prolapse and urinary incontinence by providing structural support.

Types of Pessaries

1. Ring Pessary: Circular in shape with a central opening, suitable for mild to moderate prolapse.

2.  Gellhorn Pessary: Shaped like a donut with a knob, used for moderate to severe prolapse.

3. Cube Pessary: Square-shaped, ideal for stress urinary incontinence.

How Pessaries Work

• It provides support to pelvic organs, reducing prolapse symptoms.
• Also, it improves bladder control by supporting the urethra.
• It can be used temporarily or long-term, depending on the patient’s condition and preference.
• It allows for normal activities, including exercise and daily routines.

Benefits of Using a Pessary

• It is a non-surgical alternative.
• It can be customizable options to suit individual needs.
• It improves quality of life by reducing symptoms such as urinary leakage and pelvic pressure.
• It may prevent the need for surgery in some cases.
• It can be easily inserted and removed by a trained pelvic floor physiotherapist.
• The patient is taught how to safely insert, remove and care for the pessary.

Risks of Using Pessaries

It’s crucial to discuss any concerns or potential risks with your pelvic floor physiotherapist before starting pessary therapy. With proper guidance and monitoring, the benefits of using a pessary often outweigh the risks for many individuals.

Getting Started:

• Schedule an appointment with one of our experienced pelvic floor physiotherapists for a comprehensive assessment but remember we don’t fit them.
• Our team will determine the most suitable type and size of pessary for your condition and recommend you to a clinic to fit it for you.
• Follow-up appointments will be scheduled to monitor your progress and make any necessary adjustments.

Currently at TheraTouch Physiotherapy, we do not fit pessaries. We can however assess if you are an appropriate candidate to get a pessary and then we refer you to the appropriate facility and professional to get it fitted.

Contact Us:

For more information or to schedule an appointment, please contact TheraTouch Physiotherapy at 613-709-8001 or visit our clinic at 2249 Carling Ave Suite 201, Ottawa, ON K2B 7E9.

You can also send us a mail via Info@theratouchphysio.com.

We are available on all social media platforms as theratouchphysiotherapy.

Take control of your pelvic health with pessaries at TheraTouch Physiotherapy. Let us help you regain confidence and comfort in your daily life.

C-Section (Cesarean) Labor Recovery

Bringing a new life into the world is a miraculous experience, but it often comes with its own set of challenges. For mothers who undergo cesarean sections (C-sections), the recovery process can be both physically and emotionally demanding. While the focus is typically on the incision site, the importance of pelvic floor health is often overlooked. In this blog post, we will explore the significance of pelvic floor physiotherapy in aiding C-section recovery and how it can contribute to a smoother postpartum journey.

Understanding C-Section Recovery

C-sections, though common, are major abdominal surgeries that require careful rehabilitation. The incision site, typically located low on the abdomen, needs time to heal. During this recovery period, mothers may experience pain, stiffness, and weakness in the abdominal and pelvic regions. Additionally, scar tissue formation can contribute to discomfort and impact the overall functioning of the pelvic floor muscles.

The Pelvic Floor Connection

The pelvic floor is a complex network of muscles, ligaments, and connective tissues that provide support to the pelvic organs, including the uterus, bladder, and rectum. Pregnancy, delivery, and surgery can all affect the pelvic floor’s integrity, leading to issues such as incontinence, pelvic pain, and reduced sexual function. Addressing these concerns is crucial for comprehensive post-C-section recovery.

Role of Pelvic Floor Physiotherapy

Pelvic floor physiotherapy is a specialized form of physiotherapy designed to assess and treat issues related to the pelvic region. In the context of C-section recovery, a pelvic floor physiotherapist plays a pivotal role in restoring strength, flexibility, and function to the pelvic floor muscles. Here’s how:

Scar Tissue Management: 

Pelvic floor physiotherapists employ techniques to address scar tissue formation around the C-section incision. Manual therapy, massage, and gentle stretching can help improve tissue mobility and reduce adhesions.

Core Strengthening: 

C-sections can weaken the abdominal muscles, impacting core strength. Pelvic floor physiotherapy includes targeted exercises to gradually strengthen the abdominal muscles, aiding in overall core stability.

Pelvic Floor Muscle Rehabilitation: 

Specific exercises and biofeedback techniques are utilized to rehabilitate the pelvic floor muscles. This not only addresses issues like incontinence but also promotes optimal pelvic health.

Posture and Body Mechanics:

Pelvic floor physiotherapists educate mothers on proper body mechanics and posture to prevent strain on the pelvic floor during daily activities. This is particularly crucial as new mothers engage in caring for their newborns.

Pain Management: 

Techniques such as manual therapy, heat therapy, and relaxation exercises are employed to manage pain and discomfort associated with the C-section incision and pelvic floor dysfunction.

Education and Empowerment: 

Pelvic floor physiotherapists provide valuable education on post-C-section recovery, empowering mothers to actively participate in their healing process. This includes guidance on safe return to exercise, lifting techniques, and self-care practices.

In the journey of C-section recovery, pelvic floor physiotherapy emerges as a key player in promoting holistic healing. By addressing the specific needs of the pelvic floor, this specialized form of therapy helps mothers regain control over their bodies, alleviate pain, and enhance overall well-being. As awareness grows regarding the importance of pelvic floor health, integrating pelvic floor physiotherapy into post-C-section care plans becomes a crucial step toward optimal recovery and a fulfilling postpartum experience.