External pelvic floor physiotherapy is a specialized branch of physical therapy that focuses on the muscles, ligaments, and connective tissues of the pelvic floor region. These muscles support organs like the bladder, uterus, and rectum and play a vital role in bladder or bowel control, sexual function, and stability of the pelvic region.

Unlike internal pelvic floor therapy (which may involve internal examinations), external pelvic floor physiotherapy is non-invasive and uses hands-on techniques from outside the body to assess and treat pelvic floor issues. These treatments are ideal for individuals who prefer a more gentle, less invasive approach, or for those whose conditions do not require internal assessment.

What to Expect:

A thorough assessment is the first step in any physiotherapy treatment plan. Here’s what typically happens during an external pelvic floor assessment:

1. Initial Consultation

The physiotherapist will begin by asking about your medical history, lifestyle, and specific pelvic floor concerns. Common issues include urinary incontinence, pelvic pain, bowel dysfunction, and sexual discomfort. It’s important to openly discuss any symptoms or experiences you’ve been having, as this will help guide the assessment.

2. Posture and Movement Evaluation

The physiotherapist will likely assess your posture and overall body alignment, as pelvic floor dysfunction can sometimes be related to issues in the lower back, hips, or spine. They may also observe how you move and perform certain activities to identify any patterns that may be contributing to pelvic floor dysfunction.

3. Pelvic Floor Muscle Assessment

Using external palpation (pressing gently on the surface of the skin), the therapist will assess the strength and function of your pelvic floor muscles. The physiotherapist might apply gentle pressure to your abdomen, hips, and pelvic region to check for muscle tightness, imbalances, or weakness.

4. Breathing and Core Function

As the pelvic floor works in conjunction with your core and diaphragm (the main breathing muscle), the physiotherapist may assess your breathing patterns. The pelvic floor and diaphragm work together in a pump-like action, and therefore dysfunction in one can impact the other.