[Pelvic Floor Therapy] Commonly Asked Questions Answered w/ Jessica McNally, DPT
As a doula, I often refer clients to pelvic floor physical therapy. Although it is highly beneficial, many people are not sure what it is or why they should look into it! Today on the blog, I have the pleasure of speaking with my good friend, Jessica McNally. She is a pelvic floor therapist and owner of Jessica McNally Physical Therapy and Yoga LLC in Morristown, New Jersey. She will answer some of the most commonly asked questions so you have a better idea of what to expect!
Who is Jessica McNally?
Hi! My name is Jessie, I am a physical therapist specializing in pelvic floor rehabilitation. I love working with the prenatal and postpartum populations because these women need extra love and support that other healthcare providers do not provide. I also am a certified yoga teacher registered with the Yoga Alliance. I love my yoga practice and want to help others feel comfortable in their own body and mind.
What is pelvic floor therapy & what are the benefits?
Pelvic floor therapy specifically addresses dysfunction of the pelvic floor such as pain or incontinence. Some other conditions such as hip or lower back pain can also be stemming from pelvic floor dysfunction. Any physical therapist can help assess and treat the pelvic region, however, only PTs trained in pelvic floor dysfunction are able to assess and treat the pelvic floor muscles.
Who should see a pelvic floor therapist?
Every single person has a pelvic floor, therefore any man, woman, or child can see a physical therapist. Some pelvic floor PTs specialize in working with children, it is always best to work with someone with experience treating your population/condition. If you have obvious pelvic floor symptoms such as urinary incontinence or constipation, should see a pelvic PT. Anyone with hip or lower back pain that is not being successfully treated should consult with a pelvic PT to determine if pelvic PT is appropriate for you.
What do you do during pelvic floor PT?
Pelvic floor PT is just like other kinds of PT. There is an assessment that determines your treatment. Treatment can include manual therapy, exercise, education, and various other treatment methods depending on the therapist you are working with. You should also have a clear idea of what you are to work on at home between your visits.
What happens during the first visit?
The first visit is usually a combination of an interview/conversation to get to know you and your symptoms followed by a physical assessment. Usually, there is time for treatment towards the end of your first visit.
How long does pelvic floor PT take?
A general range is typically 4-12 weeks. Most people begin to notice a positive change within the first 4 weeks. Depending on the severity of your symptoms as well as your goals it might take 8-12 weeks or sometimes up to a year to completely resolve your symptoms. Usually, the frequency of your therapy decreases as time passes and your symptoms continue to improve.
What sets you apart?
I believe as a yoga instructor I have an educational background in anatomy and injuries that can prevent common yoga injuries as well as help modify the yoga practice for anyone who wants to practice, regardless of injury status. As a physical therapist working in a private, out-of-network practice I am able to dedicate the amount of time and attention you need to recover as quickly as possible. A lot of times PTs are seeing 2-6 patients at the same time or insurance companies limit how many visits they will cover which can be frustrating for everyone and delay your recovery!