For Physical Therapy Professionals: Have you created public awareness materials or educational handouts for your patients? Consider donating your material to the Academy of Pelvic Health Physical Therapy's repository of patient education resources. All submissions are reviewed and revised by the Health & Wellness Committee. Click here to submit your materials.
Planning to nurse? Health experts agree that breastfeeding is the healthiest option for both mom and baby.  Most healthcare experts recommend nursing for the first 6 months of the baby’s life, and then continuing to have breast milk in the baby’s diet for one year. Continue Reading
Pain in the anus or rectum is often called rectal pain. There are different types of rectal pain. Functional rectal pain syndromes are caused by spasms of the muscle around the rectum. This muscle is called the levator ani muscle. Many successful treatments are available.  Continue Reading
The pelvic floor is a group of structures including muscle, ligaments and fascia that form the “floor” of your pelvis and core, supporting your bladder, bowel, and uterus. Injury to the pelvic floor may result in prolapse or dropping of these organs, urinary or stool leakage, or pain in the pelvis, Continue Reading
After having a baby, new moms have a lot to deal with – caring for the newest addition, sleep deprivation, hormonal changes, physical issues/pain – and for a lot of new moms, sexual dysfunction as well. Continue Reading
Diastasis rectus abdominis (DRA) is a separation of the left and right sides of the outermost abdominal muscle. It is caused by excessive forces that stretch the connective tissue called the linea alba. This condition most often occurs in pregnancy but may also occur in infants, older women, and men Continue Reading
Pelvic pain is pain felt in the lower abdomen, pelvis, or perineum. It has many possible causes and affects up to 20% of the population in the United States, including women and men. Pelvic pain is considered “chronic” when it lasts for more than 6 months. Physical therapists help people... Continue Reading
For decades, the medical field has normalized the after effects of childbirth such as pelvic pain and urinary incontinence, but it begs the question, is this normal? Picture this: You bring a little human into the world after nine months, you are in awe of just how precious they are. You forget your Continue Reading
It is important that your primary healthcare provider (physician, nurse practitioner, physician assistant) know about everything that has to do with your body, your health and how you feel. Continue Reading
Urinary incontinence refers to accidental leakage of urine. There are several types of urinary incontinence including stress, urge, mixed and functional incontinence. Continue Reading
Pregnancy and postpartum are times of great change for a woman – physically, emotionally, and hormonally. As the fetus grows during pregnancy, the musculoskeletal system is challenged by altered posture, muscle imbalances, and changes in spinal mobility. Continue Reading
Pelvic pain is described as an aching or burning pain in the lower abdomen, pelvis, or perineum. The cause of pelvic pain can be complex, and the symptoms often fluctuate, making a diagnosis difficult. Both men and women can be affected, however women are most often impacted... Continue Reading
Osteoporosis is a condition characterized by decreased density and structure of bones, causing bones to become weak or brittle. These changes increase a person’s risk for breaking a bone. Continue Reading
