A Message from Beth
Searching the web for some information? Or have you been referred to me by someone else?
Either way, I’m so glad you’re here! Pelvic health is not an easy thing to talk about, much less find consistent, current, and valid information online. There is a lot of advice out there – some good, some not so good.
Pelvic health is my thing – it’s what I’ve been doing for a few decades. Here, I want to provide solid information and links to reliable websites, articles, and other resources (be patient…this is constant work in progress).
I hope this helps in part to guide those who hurt, burn, leak, can’t go, go to much, can’t sit, can’t stand, ache, feel alone, frustrated or in pain.
I offer this website not only to explain what I do, but also as an opening to those who need hope, support, answers, guidance and information.
What is “Pelvic rehab” anyway? Basically we help the pelvis work right. It may be defined generally as physical therapy to restore the pelvic region to a more functional and/or less painful state. Pelvic rehab treats anything from pain to leakage to lack of coordination. Treatment of bladder, genital, abdominal, pelvic girdle and bowel dysfunction with physical therapy is well-studied and proven effective (especially incontinence, prolapse, urgency and frequency). It is thrilling to know we can regain control over our bodies, in many cases without surgery and medication. Physical therapy is one of the least invasive and most beneficial methods for treating functional abdominal, bowel, bladder and sexual dysfunctions.
What about pelvic pain specifically? Pelvic pain is treated differently than bowel or bladder issues, but many of the interventions may overlap. Pelvic pain is also different than other chronic pain conditions and should be treated as such. The interaction between the musculo-skeletal system and the viscera (organs) is critical to address. Research regarding pelvic pain (and chronic pain in general) has been undergoing a major and exciting transformation over the past 10-20 years (see Resources section for links to pain research websites). Along with that research, PT techniques for pain reduction have radically changed as well.
Do you just treat the pelvis? The pelvic region encompasses the areas from the abdomen/mid-back to the upper thighs (this includes all of the organs, muscles, nerves, joints/bones, connective tissue and lymphatics). Evaluation and treatment for pelvic conditions, however, usually includes more regions than just the pelvis. Complete treatment must address issues from head to toe since all areas of the body affect each other. Effective treatment also may include more disciplines than physical therapy alone. A good PT will address all aspects of care required for a client’s full recovery, including working closely with other providers (physicians, performance specialists, counselors, chiropractors, massage therapists, nutritionists, etc).
What’s different about your approach versus pelvic PT I had 10 years ago? There have been many changes addressing more holistic treatment of pelvic health issues. Activcore in Druid Hills is not just a new location, but a new concept in pelvic health physical therapy that integrates manual techniques and neurologic re-education (in part with Redcord apparatus) with safe, pain-free and effective progression into wellness, activity, function and exercise.
How on Earth did you get into this? The abdominal and pelvic region is fascinating! It’s the connecting point – the center of the body – and PT for this region is fun! Who says PT has to hurt or be boring? I learn from my highly-motivated and educated patients daily, from dedicated researchers, clinicians and body-workers every chance I get, and from a variety of research sources, books, articles, blogs and websites as often as possible. In exchange, I offer the most caring, effective, educated and intuitive treatment of which I am able for relief of whatever brings you through my door.
Thank you for visiting! I welcome any comments or questions you may have!
-Beth
