How can physio help you?
Women’s health is an area of physiotherapy focussing on problems related to Obstetrics (pregnancy) and Gynaecology. It includes conditions such as incontinence, pelvic organ prolapse, musculoskeletal/ back and pelvic pain, and pregnancy-related pains. Often these problems are related to weak pelvic floor muscles. The National Institute of Clinical Excellence (NICE) guidelines recommend that women complete regular pelvic floor exercises during pregnancy to minimise the risk of urinary incontinence and pregnancy related pains.
Our physiotherapists regularly treat clients during pregnancy and post-partum. Common issues we can help with include back, pelvic and hip pain, pregnancy-related carpal tunnel symptoms, abdominal muscle separation (Diastases Recti), and weak pelvic floor muscles.
Your physio’s role
- Your physio will carry out a full assessment to understand your problems, create achievable goals, and select a suitable treatment programme for you
- Treatment can involve advice on posture and modifying activities to help manage your pain
- You are likely to be given an individually designed programme of stabilising exercises to help regain support for lengthened and weakened pelvic floor muscles. In some cases, hands-on treatment may be required
- Your physio will monitor your progress and modify your exercises accordingly
- Sometimes a support belt may be necessary. Occasionally patients may require crutches. Your physio can advise on this
- If you have had surgery, your physio will address any scar tissue
- Your physio will write to your GP if medical problems need to be addressed