Frequently Asked Questions
WHAT IS PELVIC FLOOR PHYSICAL THERAPY?
A pelvic floor physical therapist is someone who specializes in the treatment of this group of muscles, providing education, biofeedback and awareness training and using manual techniques to help alleviate symptoms. The pelvic floor muscles can live in a shortened/tight or overactive state, which can cause pain and other dysfunction. Manual stretching of these muscles via the vaginal and/or rectal canal can help to return these muscles to a more normal, balanced state. Alternatively, these muscles can also live in an under active state, where the muscle fibers have a hard time contracting and thus providing support/function within the pelvic bowl. Here internal vaginal and/or rectal muscle re-education and coordination can help to get these muscles firing together to produce more strength and improve function.
WHAT IS THE PELVIC FLOOR?
The pelvic floor is a group of muscles shaped like a bowl that sit at the base of the pelvis, providing structural support for the pelvic and abdominal contents (uterus, cervix, bladder and colon) and are integral in the control of bowel and bladder function and well as sexual function. When these muscles are out of balance, the muscles can become either too tight or too loose leading to various symptoms that affect your quality of life.
WHAT IS VISCERAL MANIPULATION?
Visceral manipulation is a gentle, hands on therapy. It encourages normal mobility, tone, and inherent tissue motion of the viscera/organs, their connective tissue, and other areas of the body where physiological motion has been impaired. Adhesions can form within the organs and fascia of the body as a result of inflammation, trauma, surgery, emotional stress, illness, and postural dysfunction. These adhesions can create a line of tension throughout the body and influence the function of the organ systems, which include the reproductive and elimination system. Through the gentle force of visceral mobilization, organ function can improve.
HOW LONG IS EACH SESSION?
All initial evaluations are one hour with Liz. Follow up visits are either 60 minutes or 45 minutes, depending on what is recommended and the patient’s preference. For those coming from locations other than the NY Metro area, extended time blocks are available.
WHAT SHOULD I EXPECT AT MY FIRST SESSION?
A thorough medical history will be taken, as well as details of your current symptoms. Based on your history and symptoms, Liz will perform an examination, which may include observation of movement and posture as well as palpation of your pelvis, spine, and abdomen. Based on your history, an internal vaginal and/or rectal assessment may be recommended to further determine how these structures are contributing to your condition. An internal assessment is done only with the patient’s consent, and further explanation regarding the anatomy and physiology of the pelvic floor is discussed in the session.
DO I NEED A PRESCRIPTION FOR PT?
Since 2006 New York State offers direct access, which means physical therapists can treat patients for 10 visits or 30 days without a referral. Beyond this, a referral is required to continue with treatment. If physical therapy care is less than 10 visits or 30 days, no MD prescription is necessary.
WHAT SHOULD I WEAR?
Comfortable clothing is recommended, so that movement is not limited. Gowns are provided if needed.
WHAT SHOULD I BRING?
It is helpful to bring any medical records, imaging, doctor notes, prescriptions that may be related to your condition.
TERRA WELLNESS IS AN OUT OF NETWORK PROVIDER - WHAT DOES THAT MEAN?
Liz does not participate in-network with any insurance companies. If you have out of network benefits, or if you are not sure, we can verify your benefits with your insurance company and submit on your behalf. Liz can also provide you with a superbill to submit on your own.
