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2249 Carling Ave. Suite 201, Ottawa, ON K2B 7E9
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613-709-8001
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info@theratouchphysio.com
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Mon - Fri: 9 AM - 6:30 PM | Sat: 10 AM - 5 PM

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.

Menopause and Perimenopause

Menopause is a transformative phase in a woman’s life, marked by significant hormonal changes that affect various aspects of her well-being. Beyond the well-known symptoms like hot flashes and mood swings, menopause and its precursor, perimenopause, can also have a profound impact on pelvic floor health. We are shedding light on the intricate relationship between decreasing hormones and pelvic floor muscles during this crucial life transition.

The Hormonal Surge

Menopause and perimenopause are characterized by a decline in estrogen and progesterone levels. These hormones, essential for maintaining tissue health, are particularly crucial for the well-being of the pelvic floor muscles. As the body adjusts to this hormonal shift, women may experience a spectrum of symptoms, from the well-known to the less-discussed. Understanding the subtleties of how these changes affect the pelvic floor is paramount for women’s holistic health.

Pelvic Floor Muscle Dynamics

The pelvic floor muscles are a complex network responsible for supporting pelvic organs, maintaining continence, and ensuring spinal stability. The decline in estrogen levels during menopause can initiate several changes in these muscles:

1. Muscle Atrophy: Estrogen plays a vital role in muscle maintenance and repair. With its reduction, pelvic floor muscles may undergo atrophy, resulting in weakness and decreased tone.

2. Connective Tissue Alterations: Estrogen also influences the elasticity and flexibility of the connective tissues supporting pelvic organs. A decrease in estrogen can lead to diminished tissue resilience.

3. Vaginal Dryness and Pelvic Floor Impact: Reduced estrogen levels often cause vaginal dryness, affecting the pelvic floor’s flexibility and responsiveness. This can contribute to discomfort and impact sexual function.

Managing Pelvic Floor Health during Menopause

1. Pelvic Floor Physiotherapy:  Incorporating specific pelvic floor exercises into your routine can help strengthen and Pelvic floor physiotherapy plays a crucial role in managing the impact of menopause on pelvic floor health. Our dedicated physiotherapists offer specialized care that addresses the unique needs of women undergoing this transition:

  • Targeted Pelvic Floor Exercises
  •  Pelvic floor physiotherapists design personalized exercise programs to strengthen and tone pelvic floor muscles, addressing issues like muscle atrophy and weakness.
  • Manual Therapy: Hands-on techniques can be employed to address muscle tightness, improve flexibility, and promote blood circulation in the pelvic region.
  • Education and Lifestyle Guidance: Pelvic floor physiotherapists provide valuable education on maintaining pelvic floor health, including proper posture, body mechanics, and lifestyle adjustments.
  • Biofeedback and Electrical Stimulation: Advanced techniques such as biofeedback and electrical stimulation may be utilized to enhance muscle control and coordination.

2. Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT): Consult with your healthcare provider to explore the potential benefits of hormone replacement therapy. HRT can alleviate menopausal symptoms and positively impact pelvic floor health.

3. Nutrition and Hydration: A balanced diet rich in nutrients and adequate hydration are crucial for overall muscle health, including the pelvic floor. Proper hydration supports tissue elasticity, while a well-rounded diet provides essential nutrients for muscle function.

4. Seeking Professional Guidance: Our dedicated physiotherapists specialize in pelvic health and offer personalized assessments and treatment plans. Professional guidance can address specific concerns related to menopause and pelvic floor health.

For menopause and perimenopause, understanding the nuanced relationship between decreasing hormones and pelvic floor health is essential for women navigating the menopausal journey. By incorporating targeted exercises, making lifestyle adjustments, and seeking professional guidance, women can actively promote pelvic health during this transformative phase. At our physiotherapy clinic, we stand committed to supporting women through expert care, empowering them to embrace menopause with strength and resilience, ensuring a smooth transition to the next chapter of their lives.

Tailbone Pain and Physiotherapy

Coccydynia, commonly known as tailbone pain, can be a persistent discomfort affecting daily life. The triangular bone at the base of the spine, the coccyx, may become inflamed or injured, leading to pain. This post explores the causes, symptoms, and treatment options for coccydynia, with a focus on the indispensable role of physiotherapy in managing this condition.

Causes of Coccydynia

Coccydynia can result from various factors, including trauma, prolonged sitting on hard surfaces, childbirth, or degenerative changes in the coccyx. Identifying the cause is crucial, prompting individuals with tailbone pain to seek professional advice.

Symptoms

Primary symptoms include localized pain and tenderness in the tailbone area. Activities like sitting for extended periods may intensify discomfort, and pain may be experienced during movements like standing up or leaning back while seated.

Tips to Manage Coccydynia

Limit Sitting Time: Reduce prolonged sitting, especially on hard surfaces. Consider using a cushion for added support.

Use a Donut Cushion: Employing specialized cushions with a central opening can relieve pressure on the tailbone during sitting.

Maintain Good Posture: Proper posture is essential. Sit with a straight back and relaxed shoulders to minimize strain on the tailbone.

Warm Compresses: Applying warm compresses before physiotherapy exercises can help relax muscles and alleviate pain.

Medication for Coccydynia

Over-the-counter pain relievers like NSAIDs can be effective. However, consulting with a healthcare professional is crucial to ensure suitability for the specific condition.

The Role of Physiotherapy: Unlocking the Healing Potential

Physiotherapy emerges as a cornerstone in the journey to alleviate coccydynia, offering a multifaceted approach to recovery:

Detailed Assessment: A thorough examination by a physiotherapist helps pinpoint the root cause of tailbone pain, enabling the creation of a tailored treatment plan.

Targeted Stretching Exercises: Physiotherapists design exercises to enhance flexibility in the muscles surrounding the coccyx, addressing specific areas of tension.

Strength Building: Tailored strengthening exercises, focusing on pelvic and core muscles, provide enhanced support to the coccyx, aiding in pain reduction and prevention.

Manual Therapy Techniques: Hands-on approaches, including massage and mobilization, alleviate muscle tension and promote optimal functioning of the affected area.

Postural Education and Correction: Physiotherapists guide individuals on maintaining proper posture during daily activities, mitigating stress on the tailbone and fostering long-term relief.

Modalities for Pain Management: Utilizing modalities such as ultrasound and heat therapy enhances blood circulation, reduces inflammation, and contributes to overall pain relief.

Coccydynia poses challenges, but with the comprehensive approach provided by physiotherapy, relief is attainable. Beyond symptom alleviation, physiotherapy empowers individuals with the knowledge and tools to foster a complete recovery. 

If you’re experiencing tailbone pain, consulting a healthcare professional or a qualified physiotherapist is essential for a personalized and effective treatment plan. TheraTouch Physiotherapy on Carling Ave, Ottawa offers General, Sports & Pelvic Health Physiotherapy and can help with Coccydynia.