Pelvic Floor Therapy

A comprehensive rehabilitation program for people suffering from Pelvic Floor Dysfunction

Many men and women in the Greater Cleveland area come to Southwest General to receive treatment for conditions affecting the pelvic muscles and for bladder control issues. To help them, our Physical Therapy Department has specialized and readily available Pelvic Floor Therapy programs that lead to successful outcomes.

What is Pelvic Floor Dysfunction?

The pelvic floor is a group of muscles that forms the lower boundary of the pelvis and keeps the abdominal and pelvic organs in place so that they function properly. The organs in this area include the bladder, uterus (women), prostate (men), and rectum (the area at the end of the large intestine where the body stores solid waste). Pelvic Floor Dysfunction occurs when pelvic muscles and/or connective tissue are weakened or injured, usually through childbirth, surgery, trauma or aging.

Symptoms of Pelvic Floor Dysfunction

Pelvic Floor Dysfunction has a range of symptoms including, but not limited to:

• Urinary urgency/frequency
• Bladder or bowel incontinence
• Pelvic or abdominal pain
• Discomfort with elimination
• Pain during intercourse

A Professional and Compassionate Rehabilitation Team

At Southwest General, pelvic floor therapy is provided by a team of experienced and compassionate physical therapists who have been trained through the American Physical Therapy Association, in the area of Pelvic Physical Therapy. Team members evaluate each patient prior to beginning treatment. Patient evaluation includes:

• Patient history
• Posture assessment
• Muscle strength assessment of the abdomen and pelvis
• Lower extremities evaluation

Pelvic Floor Therapy Treatment Options

Based on the results of the initial evaluation, a personalized plan of care is developed for each patient. Treatment options may include:

• Therapeutic exercise for the pelvic floor andrelated musculature
• Posture re-education
• Manual therapy (i.e. massage techniques, myofascial release, muscle energy techniques)
• Education, including bladder and bowel training
• Breathing and relaxation techniques
• Electrical stimulation/biofeedback

Most treatment programs range from six to eight weeks, with patient progress being routinely evaluated during treatment.

Insurance Information

A written prescription from your physician requesting “Physical Therapy Evaluate and Treat” is required and should include a pertinent diagnosis.

We Look Forward to Helping You

To learn more about the Pelvic Floor Therapy Program at Southwest General, or to schedule an appointment, call 833-SW-REHAB (833-797-3422).

Pelvic Floor Therapy is available at:

Brunswick Medical Center & ER
4065 Center Road
Brunswick, OH 44212
330-558-0180

LifeWorks Therapy Services of Southwest General
7390 Old Oak Blvd.
Middleburg Heights, OH 44130
Phone: 440-816-8010
Fax: 440-816-4850

North Royalton Physical Therapy
5340 Royalton Road
North Royalton, OH 44133
Phone: 440-230-1133
Fax: 440-230-9243

Strongsville Medical Center
18181 Pearl Road
Strongsville, OH 44136
440-816-4920