Clients
often have questions about PT and women’s health. A brief
phone or office consult can help answer some concerns, including
insurance issues. Registration forms and a questionnaire are
usually sent ahead by email, to make the most of our time together.
Women are welcome to bring a spouse, family member, or friend
to their initial or follow-up appointments.
The
first PT visit begins with gathering information through
review of history taking. We often start with anatomy instruction
of the musculoskeletal system, to help understand where some
symptoms may be coming from. The evaluation may include postural
examination of the alignment of the spine and extremities,
and involves palpation in standing, and lying down. Assessment
of movement of the joints with measurements, and strength
testing are a part of physical therapy evaluation, though
not always at the initial visit.
Women
with incontinence and pelvic pain may benefit from palpation
of the “pelvic floor” support muscles, including
palpation of the muscles’ lifting action. Some women
have strength testing of the pelvic floor muscles with “EMG” muscle
testing. This is similar to a heart monitor, with stick-on
patches or an internal sensor to learn how your muscles work
best. It is possible to see a graph of the muscles while they
are exercising and also letting go. This can be helpful for
getting an idea of how weak the muscles are, if there is muscle
spasm, and also for how to train your muscles. These options
are only done with the woman’s consent, and are not always
indicated or performed at the initial visit.
The
history and evaluation shape the plan of care. Together we
discuss a variety of treatment options, and choose strategies
to begin to meet your needs.
Wellness
visits are usually educational and do not require a medical
prescription. They are more general in nature, and not always
tailored to individual needs. Women may seek preventative information
to learn about posture and back mechanics, updated Kegel exercise
techniques, and post surgical exercise strategies. Women can
choose if they want to talk about any symptoms in a class format,
or if they prefer to keep personal information private.
Mild
symptoms may improve through wellness programs, but it always
recommended that you tell your medical provider about any symptoms
you may have. Lack of improvement indicates a need for further
consultation with a medical provider, and perhaps structured
treatment.
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