women's health Archives - TheraTouch Physiotherapy

By TheraTouch Blogs December 4, 2023 0 Comments Physio intimacy pain, kegels, Menopause, pelvic floor physiotherapy, pelvic health, pelvic health physiotherapy, women's health

Menopause Intimacy Pain: Role of Pelvic Floor Physiotherapy

Menopause is a significant life stage for women, accompanied by a range of physical and emotional changes. One common and distressing issue that many women face during this time is painful sex, known as dyspareunia. However, there is a solution that offers hope and relief: Pelvic Floor Physiotherapy. In this blog post, we will explore how pelvic floor physiotherapy can help women manage and overcome painful sex during menopause.

Understanding Painful Sex During Menopause

Painful sex during menopause can be attributed to a variety of factors, including hormonal changes, vaginal dryness, and psychological influences. These changes often result in discomfort during sexual intercourse, making it a challenging and distressing experience for women.

How Pelvic Floor Physiotherapy Can Help

Pelvic floor physiotherapy is a specialized form of physical therapy that focuses on the muscles, ligaments, and connective tissues of the pelvic region. Here’s how it can help alleviate painful sex during menopause:

Muscle Rehabilitation:

During menopause, the decrease in estrogen levels can weaken the pelvic floor muscles. These muscles play a vital role in supporting pelvic organs, including the bladder, uterus, and rectum. When these muscles become weakened and thinned, they can contribute to discomfort or pain during sexual activity. Pelvic floor physiotherapy involves targeted exercises and techniques designed to strengthen and tone these muscles. By improving muscle function and support, this therapy can help reduce the discomfort experienced during sex.

Vaginal Tissue Health:

Reduced estrogen levels can lead to vaginal dryness, causing the vaginal lining to become less lubricated and more prone to irritation during intercourse. Pelvic floor physiotherapists can offer manual therapy treatments and provide guidance on exercises and techniques to enhance blood flow to the vaginal tissues. These methods can help combat vaginal dryness and irritation, making sexual activity more comfortable and enjoyable.

Education and Relaxation Techniques:

A crucial aspect of pelvic floor physiotherapy is educating women about their pelvic anatomy and function. Understanding how the pelvic floor muscles work and their role in sexual function can reduce anxiety and fear associated with painful sex. Additionally, pelvic floor physiotherapists can offer relaxation techniques to help women relax and reduce tension during sexual activity, thereby minimizing pain and discomfort.

Personalized Treatment Plans:

Pelvic floor physiotherapists create individualized treatment plans tailored to the specific needs of each woman. This ensures that the therapy addresses the unique factors contributing to painful sex. The treatment plan may include a combination of exercises, manual techniques, and education to provide a comprehensive approach to improving sexual comfort.

Painful sex during menopause can be a challenging issue, but there is hope and we at TheraTouch Physiotherapy are available to help! Pelvic Floor Physiotherapy offers a holistic approach to addressing the physical factors related to muscle weakness, tightness and vaginal dryness. It also provides education and relaxation techniques to reduce anxiety and improve sexual function. If you’re experiencing painful sex during menopause, consider consulting a pelvic floor physiotherapist to explore how this specialized therapy can benefit you and improve your overall well-being. Remember, you don’t have to endure painful sex in silence, there are solutions that can provide relief and enhance your quality of life.

By TheraTouch Blogs December 3, 2023 0 Comments Physio chronic pain, pain, physiotherapy, shoulder, shoulder pain, shoulder physiotherapy, women's health

Shoulder Pain: The Role of Physiotherapy

Some conditions that our physiotherapists treat

Are you grappling with persistent shoulder discomfort that hampers your daily activities? This blog is designed to be your compass through the intricate landscape of shoulder discomfort. We will delve into the origins of shoulder pain, explore evidence-based remedies, and emphasize the transformative impact of shoulder physiotherapy in not only providing relief but also in restoring optimal functionality and well-being.

Unveiling Shoulder Pain’s Origins

Shoulder discomfort or pain originates from various sources, each demanding specific attention.

Muscle Tension: Tense shoulder muscles restrict motion and cause discomfort. But you can explore strategies to relieve this tension for improved flexibility and comfort.

Joint Issues: Inflammation or arthritis within the shoulder joint leads to persistent pain. Understand how these issues affect your shoulder’s function and discover ways to manage and alleviate discomfort.

Injuries: Traumatic events, like strains or dislocations, contribute to ongoing shoulder pain but once an individual is able to decode the impact of injuries and explore rehabilitation strategies for a smoother recovery.

Posture and Overuse: Poor ergonomics and repetitive movements contribute to chronic shoulder discomfort. Learn how lifestyle factors affect your shoulder health and adopt corrective measures for lasting relief.

Evidence-Based Solutions for Shoulder Pain: Unlock a diverse set of evidence-based remedies that effectively manage shoulder pain

Medications: Delve into the targeted use of medications to alleviate pain and reduce inflammation so as to reduce discomfort.

Physical Therapy: Explore the benefits of shoulder physiotherapy and coupled with tailored exercises designed to enhance mobility and ease pain.

Manual Therapy: Understand how expert hands-on techniques address muscle tension, improve joint mobility, and expedite the healing process.

Posture Correction: Learn about ergonomic adjustments and posture correction as essential elements in preventing recurring shoulder discomfort.

Unraveling the Mechanics of Shoulder Physiotherapy to Address Shoulder Pain

Embark on a journey through the intricate process of shoulder physiotherapy, where each step is a deliberate stride towards your pain-free mobility.

Comprehensive Assessment: Delve into the world of detailed evaluations that dissect the root cause of shoulder discomfort. This comprehensive assessment lays the foundation for a personalized treatment plan so that it ensures that every aspect of your discomfort is addressed with precision.

Targeted Exercises: Discover a repetition of customized exercises meticulously designed to fortify and mobilize shoulder muscles. Because these exercises not only promote flexibility but also play a pivotal role in diminishing pain. Unearth the power of movement tailored to your unique condition, unlocking a pathway to increased strength and resilience.

Manual Techniques: Grasp the impact of skilled hands-on interventions that release tension, enhance joint function and optimize overall shoulder mechanics. Through these manual techniques, you’ll experience a nuanced approach to healing from shoulder discomfort, where the expertise of your physiotherapist becomes a catalyst for tangible, immediate relief and relaxation.

Education and Prevention: Acquire valuable insights into shoulder conditions, effective pain management strategies, and preventative measures for the future. Because education is every important in this journey. Education becomes a beacon, not only guiding you through your current discomfort but also empowering you to actively participate in your shoulder health journey.

In this meticulous exploration of shoulder physiotherapy, each element contributes meaningfully to your well-being. It’s a journey that transcends relief, aiming to equip you with the tools and knowledge needed for sustained shoulder health and a future free from discomfort..

By TheraTouch Physio June 14, 2023 0 Comments Exercises, Insurance, Physio, Therapy kegels, pelvic floor dysfunction, pelvic floor physiotherapy, pelvic health, pelvic health physiotherapy, pelvic organ prolapse, postpartum, pregnancy, pregnancy and postpartum, prolapse, women's health

Understanding Pelvic Organ Prolapse: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options

Pelvic organ prolapse occurs when one or more of the pelvic organs, such as the uterus, bladder, or rectum, descend and bulge into the vaginal wall. This condition is commonly caused by weakened or damaged pelvic floor muscles and ligaments that support the organs. Here are some causes, symptoms, and treatments of pelvic organ prolapse:

Causes of Pelvic organ prolapse:

Pregnancy and childbirth: The process of pregnancy and vaginal delivery can stretch and weaken the pelvic floor muscles and tissues, leading to prolapse.
Aging: As women age, the pelvic floor muscles naturally weaken, making them more susceptible to prolapse.
Hormonal changes: Decreased estrogen levels during menopause can contribute to the weakening of pelvic floor muscles.
Chronic constipation: Straining during bowel movements over a long period can weaken the pelvic floor and contribute to prolapse.
Obesity: Excess weight can put increased pressure on the pelvic organs, leading to prolapse.
Chronic coughing: Conditions like chronic bronchitis or asthma that cause persistent coughing can strain the pelvic floor muscles and contribute to prolapse.

Symptoms of Pelvic organ prolapse:

Sensation of a bulge or pressure in the vagina.
Feeling of heaviness or pulling in the pelvis.
Pain or discomfort during sexual intercourse.
Backache or lower abdominal pain.
Urinary problems like frequent urination, urgency, or incontinence.
Bowel movement difficulties or a sensation of incomplete emptying.
Vaginal bleeding or discharge.

Treatments for Pelvic Organ Prolapse:

Pelvic Floor Physiotherapy: Pelvic floor exercises such as Kegel exercises can help strengthen the pelvic floor muscles and improve symptoms.
Lifestyle modifications: Maintaining a healthy weight, avoiding heavy lifting, and treating constipation or chronic coughing can reduce the risk of prolapse.
Vaginal pessary: A removable device inserted into the vagina to provide support for the prolapsed organs.
Hormone replacement therapy: Estrogen therapy may help improve the strength and elasticity of the pelvic tissues.
Surgery: In severe cases, surgery may be recommended to repair the prolapse and provide support to the pelvic organs. There are different surgical techniques available depending on the specific prolapse and individual factors.

Pelvic Floor Physiotherapy is an effective solution for alleviating Pelvic organ prolapse symptoms, addressing persistent conditions, and expediting the healing process. Your licensed physiotherapists evaluate your specific condition and provide personalized recommendations or therapies to help you manage your Pelvic organ prolapse symptoms effectively

Table of Contents:

Introduction
Causes of Pelvic Organ Prolapse

2.1 Pregnancy and Childbirth

2.2 Aging

2.3 Hormonal Changes

2.4 Chronic Constipation

2.5 Obesity

2.6 Chronic Coughing

Symptoms of Pelvic Organ Prolapse

3.1 Sensation of a Bulge or Pressure

3.2 Feeling of Heaviness or Pulling

3.3 Pain or Discomfort During Intercourse

3.4 Backache or Lower Abdominal Pain

3.5 Urinary Problems

3.6 Bowel Movement Difficulties

3.7 Vaginal Bleeding or Discharge

Treatments for Pelvic Organ Prolapse

4.1 Pelvic Floor Physiotherapy

4.2 Lifestyle Modifications

4.3 Vaginal Pessary

4.4 Hormone Replacement Therapy

4.5 Surgery

Conclusion

By TheraTouch Physio June 12, 2023 0 Comments Uncategorized kegels, pelvic floor, pelvic floor dysfunction, pelvic floor physiotherapy, pelvic floor weakness, pelvic health, pelvic health physiotherapy, pelvic organ prolapse, prolapse, urinary incontinence, urine leakage, weak pelvic floor, women's health

Is Your Pelvic Floor Weak? Learn the Signs Now!

The pelvic floor, a group of muscles and tissues located at the base of the pelvis, plays a crucial role in supporting the pelvic organs and maintaining urinary and bowel control. When these muscles become weak, it can lead to various symptoms and complications. This article aims to shed light on the ten signs that indicate a weak pelvic floor, helping individuals recognize the symptoms and seek appropriate treatment. By understanding the causes, prevention, and management strategies, you can take proactive steps toward improving your pelvic health.

Understanding the Pelvic Floor: The pelvic floor refers to a complex network of muscles, ligaments, and connective tissues that form a hammock-like structure at the bottom of the pelvis. It provides support to the bladder, uterus, and rectum, while also contributing to sexual function and stability of the pelvic region. When the pelvic floor weakens, it can lead to a range of uncomfortable and disruptive symptoms.

Common Causes of Pelvic Floor Weakness: Several factors contribute to the weakening of the pelvic floor muscles. These include pregnancy and childbirth, hormonal changes, aging, obesity, chronic coughing, and certain medical conditions. By understanding the causes, individuals can gain insight into potential risk factors and take necessary precautions.

Recognizing the Signs and Symptoms:

Urinary Incontinence: Involuntary leakage of urine during activities such as coughing, sneezing, or laughing.
Frequent Urination: A need to urinate more frequently than usual, even in small amounts.
Bowel/Fecal Incontinence: Accidental leakage of feces or difficulty controlling bowel movements.
Pelvic Organ Prolapse: A sensation of pelvic pressure or the protrusion of pelvic organs into the vaginal canal.
Pain or Discomfort in the Pelvic Region: Persistent pain or discomfort in the lower abdomen, pelvis, or genitals.
Sexual Dysfunction: Decreased sexual satisfaction, pain during intercourse, or difficulty achieving orgasm due to weakened pelvic floor muscles.
Back Pain: Weak pelvic floor muscles can contribute to lower back pain or discomfort, as they are part of the core muscle group that supports the spine.
Difficulty Controlling Flatulence: Inability to control the release of gas from the rectum.
Incomplete Emptying of the Bladder or Bowels: The feeling of not fully emptying the bladder or bowels after urination or defecation.
Hip Pain: Hip pain can occur when the weakened pelvic floor muscles impact the alignment and stability of the hips.
Straining During Bowel Movements: Difficulty in passing stools, often accompanied by straining or a feeling of incomplete bowel evacuation, can indicate a weak pelvic floor.
Difficulty Engaging Core Muscles: Trouble activating or engaging the core muscles, which includes the pelvic floor muscles, during exercises or daily activities.
The sensation of Heaviness or Pressure in the Pelvic Area: A persistent feeling of weight or pressure in the pelvic region.

Diagnosing Pelvic Floor Weakness: Proper diagnosis of pelvic floor weakness involves a thorough evaluation of medical history, physical examination, and specialized tests. It is essential to consult a healthcare professional specializing in pelvic floor disorders for accurate diagnosis and personalized treatment options.

Preventing and Managing Pelvic Floor Weakness:

Pelvic Floor Exercises: Strengthening exercises, such as Kegels, can help improve the tone and function of the pelvic floor muscles. Your Pelvic Floor Physiotherapist can guide you.
Lifestyle Modifications: Adopting healthy habits, such as maintaining a balanced diet, managing weight, and avoiding smoking, can positively impact pelvic floor health.
Maintaining a Healthy Weight: Excess weight puts added pressure on the pelvic floor, so maintaining a healthy weight is crucial.
Avoiding Straining During Bowel Movements: Straining during bowel movements can weaken the pelvic floor muscles. Adequate fiber intake and hydration can help prevent constipation.
Treating Chronic Cough: Chronic coughing can strain the pelvic floor. Addressing the underlying cause of the cough can aid in managing pelvic floor weakness.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

Can men have weak pelvic floors? Yes, men can also experience pelvic floor weakness, although it is more commonly associated with women.
How common is pelvic floor weakness? Pelvic floor weakness is prevalent, affecting a significant number of individuals, particularly women.
Are there any risk factors for developing a weak pelvic floor? Certain factors, such as pregnancy, childbirth, obesity, hormonal changes, and chronic coughing, can increase the risk of developing a weak pelvic floor.
Can pregnancy and childbirth cause pelvic floor weakness? Yes, pregnancy and childbirth can place significant strain on the pelvic floor muscles, leading to weakness.
Can a weak pelvic floor improve without treatment? In some cases, mild pelvic floor weakness may improve with lifestyle modifications and exercises. However, seeking professional guidance such as Pelvic Floor Physiotherapy can ensure optimal recovery and prevent further complications.

Recognizing the signs and symptoms of a weak pelvic floor is crucial for early intervention and effective management. By understanding the causes, prevention strategies, and seeking appropriate treatment, individuals can improve their pelvic health and regain control over their daily lives.

If you experience any of the mentioned symptoms, it is recommended to consult with a healthcare professional or your Pelvic Floor Physiotherapist. They can provide a proper diagnosis and guide you in implementing appropriate exercises, lifestyle modifications, or other treatments to strengthen your pelvic floor muscles and alleviate these symptoms. Remember, it is never too late to start taking care of your pelvic floor health and addressing the issue early can lead to improved quality of life and overall well-being.

Table of Contents:

1. Introduction
2. Understanding the Pelvic Floor
3. Common Causes of Pelvic Floor Weakness
4. Recognizing the Signs and Symptoms
  4.1 Urinary Incontinence
  4.2 Frequent Urination
  4.3 Bowel Incontinence
  4.4 Pelvic Organ Prolapse
  4.5 Pain or Discomfort in the Pelvic Region
  4.6 Sexual Dysfunction
  4.7 Back Pain
  4.8 Difficulty Controlling Flatulence
  4.9 Incomplete Emptying of the Bladder or Bowels
  4.10 Hip Pain
  4.11 Straining During Bowel Movements
  4.12 Difficulty Engaging Core Muscles
  4.13 Sensation of Heaviness or Pressure in the Pelvic Area
5. Diagnosing Pelvic Floor Weakness
6. Preventing and Managing Pelvic Floor Weakness
  6.1 Pelvic Floor Exercises
  6.2 Lifestyle Modifications
  6.3 Maintaining a Healthy Weight
  6.4 Avoiding Straining During Bowel Movements
  6.5 Treating Chronic Cough
7. 1. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
  7.1 Can men have weak pelvic floors?
  7.2 How common is pelvic floor weakness?
  7.3 Are there any risk factors for developing a weak pelvic floor?
  7.4 Can pregnancy and childbirth cause pelvic floor weakness?
  7.5 Can a weak pelvic floor improve without treatment?
8. Conclusion

By TheraTouch Physio June 6, 2023 0 Comments Exercises, Insurance, Physio, Therapy, Uncategorized chronic pain, diastasis, incontinence, kegels, pain, pelvic floor dysfunction, pelvic floor physiotherapy, pelvic health, pelvic health physiotherapy, pelvic organ prolapse, postpartum, pregnancy, pregnancy & postpartum, SPD, urinary incontinence, urine leakage, women's health

How Pelvic Floor Physiotherapy Supports Pregnancy and Postpartum Health

Pregnancy and Postpartum pelvic physiotherapy

Pregnancy and the postpartum period are transformative experiences that bring joy and challenges to women’s lives. During this time, the pelvic floor muscles undergo significant changes and may require special attention and care. Pelvic floor physiotherapy offers invaluable support to empower women throughout their pregnancy and postpartum journey. In this blog post, we will explore how pelvic floor physiotherapy can help you feel empowered, confident, and in control during this transformative phase of your life.

Preparing for Pregnancy: Pelvic floor physiotherapy can be beneficial even before conception. By addressing any existing pelvic floor issues or imbalances, such as weak muscles or pelvic pain, you can start your pregnancy journey on a healthier foundation. A pelvic floor assessment and targeted exercises can help strengthen your pelvic floor muscles, optimize their function, and promote better bladder control.
Supporting Pregnancy: During pregnancy, the pelvic floor experiences increased strain due to the growing baby, hormonal changes, and the weight of the uterus. Pelvic floor physiotherapy can help manage common pregnancy-related issues such as back pain, pelvic girdle pain, and incontinence. A physiotherapist can provide exercises and techniques to strengthen the pelvic floor muscles, promote better posture, and enhance overall pelvic stability, empowering you to navigate the physical demands of pregnancy with greater comfort and confidence.
Preparing for Labor and Delivery: Pelvic floor physiotherapy plays a vital role in preparing for labor and delivery. Through specialized exercises and techniques, you can learn to relax and control your pelvic floor muscles, facilitating the birthing process. A physiotherapist can guide you in practicing perineal massage and breathing techniques to reduce the risk of perineal tears and promote more efficient labor.
Postpartum Recovery: After giving birth, your body undergoes a period of healing and adjustment. Pelvic floor physiotherapy is instrumental in supporting your postpartum recovery. A thorough assessment can identify any pelvic floor dysfunctions, such as weakened muscles or pelvic organ prolapse. With personalized exercises and techniques, you can regain strength, restore pelvic floor function, and address any issues like urinary incontinence, back pain or pain during intercourse. By nurturing your pelvic floor health, you can enhance your overall well-being and regain confidence in your body.
Addressing Mental and Emotional Well-being: Pelvic floor physiotherapy also acknowledges the emotional and psychological aspects of pregnancy and postpartum. Your physiotherapist can provide guidance and support, addressing any concerns or anxieties you may have regarding your pelvic floor health. By fostering an open and supportive environment, pelvic floor physiotherapy empowers you to take an active role in your well-being and encourages a positive mindset throughout your journey.

In conclusion, Pelvic floor physiotherapy is an invaluable resource for women during pregnancy and postpartum. Promoting physical strength, providing valuable support, and addressing emotional well-being, empowers you to embrace this transformative phase of life with confidence and resilience. If you are pregnant or have recently given birth, consider seeking the guidance of a qualified pelvic floor physiotherapist who can tailor a program to meet your unique needs. Embrace the power of pelvic floor physiotherapy and unlock your potential to thrive during this remarkable time.

Table of Contents

Introduction
Preparing for Pregnancy
Supporting Pregnancy
Preparing for Labor and Delivery
Postpartum Recovery
Addressing Mental and Emotional Well-being
Conclusion
Introduction

Visit Our Location

Give Us A Call

Send Us A Message

Opening Hours

Tag: women's health