pelvic floor therapy

 

what is pelvic floor therapy?

Pelvic floor rehabilitation is a specialized form of physical therapy aimed at treating the muscles of the pelvic floor, core and hips. At Dayton Children’s, this therapy is provided by physical therapists who are specially trained in pediatric pelvic floor rehabilitation.  

The goal is to support children and their caregivers with body and behavioral modifications that promote successful urination and defecation, as well as help manage pelvic or abdominal pain. All techniques used are external—there is no internal assessment of the vaginal or anal canals. Interventions may include education for both the patient and caregiver about the child’s diagnosis and treatment plan, guidance on toileting schedules and mechanics, instruction on proper toileting position and pelvic floor muscle training, which may incorporate biofeedback therapy depending on the child’s age.  

Therapy also addresses core, hip, and diaphragmatic strengthening, along with pelvic flexibility and mobility training, to support overall function and well-being. 

who provides pelvic floor therapy?

Our therapists are specialty trained and experienced in treating children and adolescents with pelvic floor dysfunction. They hold degrees in physical therapy and have completed additional training for pelvic floor therapy.  

conditions we treat

• Bedwetting (nocturnal enuresis)   
• Constipation  
• Fecal incontinence  
• Overactive bladder  
• Pelvic pain  
• Urinary frequency/retention  
• Urinary incontinence  
• Urinary urgency  

when to consider pelvic floor therapy

Some signs that your child may have bowel or bladder dysfunction that can be helped with pelvic floor therapy: 

• Leaking of urine or feces during the day or night  
• Straining to have a bowel movement  
• Needs to wear a pad or pull up due to leaking  
• Having sudden intense urges to go and use the bathroom  
• Ignoring the urge to go use the bathroom  
• Leaking during sport performance  

Typical therapy takes place over several months and multiple sessions to make improvements   

schedule an assessment

If you think your child could benefit from pelvic floor therapy, a referral from a physician will be required. Once the referral is received, you will be contacted to schedule an initial evaluation.