Osteopathy for Pelvic Health
As Osteopaths our belief and approach to treatment is to look and assess the whole person and this is also true when it comes to pelvic health and any concerns associated with it. Addressing pelvic health issues is an area that Maddy is passionate about and by gaining a thorough history she offers a sensitive and integrative approach to help patients reach their goal of optimum health not only with the pelvic floor but looking holistically along with relevant lifestyle advice. Most women tend to feel a little embarrassed when talking about their pelvic health concerns. However, the important thing to remember is that whatever the issue may be, it is more than likely quite common but that doesn’t have to mean that it is your ‘normal.’ Maddy ensures that you have the space and time to feel supported to talk openly about your pelvic function.
What does a Pelvic Health Assessment look like?
History
A thorough medical history is obtained with questions about your main concern and any associated symptoms.
Assessment/Examination
We will look for any potential imbalances within the musculoskeletal system so taking into account posture, movement and overall function with certain activities or exercises.
Treatment and Management Plan
If deemed appropriate, hands on treatment (both internal and external) can be performed with tension point release and general whole body osteopathic techniques such as massage, articulation, stretching and dry needling. Recommendations for specific exercise, such as pelvic floor awareness, bladder training, breath work and whether the pelvic floor needs to be strengthened or lengthened.
When might you need a Pelvic Health Assessment?
- Urine leakage, that could occur when coughing, sneezing, laughing or running
- Incontinence that is urge related. Feeling like always needing to go or incomplete emptying
- Pelvic organ prolapse (uterus, bowel or bladder can protrude down). There may be a feeling of heaviness or dragging
- Lower back pain, pelvic pain and sacroiliac pain including coccyx pain (tail bone). For example, experiencing discomfort from sitting for long periods in the tail bone
- Pelvic girdle pain, not only limited to pregnancy. There may be difficulty going up and down stairs or standing on one leg
- Pain during intercourse
- Constipation issues
- Post-partum check up
