Pelvic Floor PT: Soooo IN right now!
I don't know if you've realized it – but the pelvic floor has become crazy popular! This article by The Guardian was published April 2021. 3 different patients and a few friends forwarded it to me, as it highlights just how popular pelvic floor rehabilitation has become. And I'm not surprised. When I first started treating pelvic floor disorders, nearly every patient who came in the door had never heard of the pelvic floor, let alone, a physical therapist who treated the pelvic floor. They would look at me with a perplexed and nervous gaze as I would do my best to explain the anatomy and why there really was a GREAT reason that their doctor had recommended them to come see me. This situation repeated itself again, and again, and again.
But now, it's actually a much more foreign experience. For the most part, my patients have some level of knowledge about the pelvic floor muscles. The internet and social media has allowed people more access to knowledge – including experts who make informative Tik-tok videos, infographics and blog posts on their diagnoses and treatment options. This has created more informed consumers who are learning more about their health, care about their wellness, and are seeking to find the best answers for their care.
In fact, it now very rare for for someone to come in and tell me they've never heard of pelvic floor rehabilitation. And that is AMAZING my friend.
More Treatment Options For Pelvic Floor Care
When I first moved to Atlanta in 2014, I could count the number of pelvic PTs in the area on one hand. Now?? The last time I counted, there were more than 30 of us. I'm sure that number is closer 50 or even more (I know this because nearly every level 1 pelvic floor course I teach has at least a few Atlanta based people in it!!). And while, again, this is amazing-- it's only barely scratching the surface of what is actually needed!
Pelvic Floor Problems Are Common
The reality is that pelvic floor problems are super common, and people dealing with pelvic floor problems are often struggling to find care! Look at some of these numbers:
Chronic pelvic pain effects at least 5-23% of women and 2-16% of men
Approximately 36% of female athletes leak urine
33% of individuals postpartum experience bladder leakage
Approximately 22% of older men experience bladder leakage
35% of people postpartum experience pain during sex
Vaginismus (painful vaginal insertion due to muscle spasm) occurs in 5-17%
20% of people experience constipation
Approximately 10% of people experience fecal incontinence
Helpful Resources For Those New To Pelvic Health
So... while we are serving so so many more people than we used to, we are just scratching the surface! If you are new to this blog, and want to read a little bit more to start learning about the pelvic floor, check out some of these posts:
FAQ: Isn't Everyone's Pelvic Floor A Little Bit Tender?
Head, Shoulders, Knees...And Pelvic Floor?
Yes, Men Can Have Pelvic Pain Too
Also, if this is resonating with you, and you're feeling like you may need some help, reach out and let us know!! You don't need to be one of those statistics-- you can get relief, you can feel better! And if you're not ready to see someone in person, check out some of our mini-courses online on pelvic floor topics!