On March 8th, we celebrated International Women’s Day (IWD). The theme of this year’s Women’s Day is #EachforEqual, with the IWD community stating, “We can actively choose to challenge stereotypes, fight bias, broaden perceptions, improve situations and celebrate women’s achievements.” Today, we hope to challenge the stereotypes and fight the bias associated with Women’s Health.
Ladies, let’s face it. Our bodies are not the same as our male counterparts and we face some medical challenges specific to females. Women are often uncomfortable—or even embarrassed—to discuss these health concerns and what’s normal or not. Well, we’re here to debunk those myths! We asked our very own Abby DeAngelis, PT, DPT, a Women’s Health Pelvic Floor Specialist from our Berkeley Heights office, to play a game of FACT or FICTION with us, addressing some of the common truths and untruths surrounding pelvic physical therapy.
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Pelvic pain is not normal at any age.
FACT. No one wants to experience pain—and you shouldn’t have to. A pelvic floor physical therapist is certified to perform thorough evaluations and is specifically trained to manage all your symptoms.
After baby, your body will never go back to normal.
FICTION. You should be able to run, jump, cough, and laugh again after having a baby. If you find yourself chalking up the inability to do these things as just a byproduct of pregnancy, we’re here to tell you that you don’t have to. A pelvic floor PT can help you determine the cause of these issues and guide you through addressing them.
The pelvic floor is made up of muscles.
FACT. Just like the rest of your body, the pelvic floor is made up of muscles. Not only is a pelvic floor PT trained to isolate these muscles through manual biofeedback, they can also ensure that you are activating the right ones.
Pelvic floor physical therapy is scary.
FICTION. Conservative treatment is available with your local PT. This treatment plan encompasses a variety of exercises and hands-on therapy that will address your individual needs and goals and get you back to your typical activities.
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If you’re even just a little curious about what’s going on with your body, make sure to schedule a complimentary consult with Abby so she can determine if pelvic floor PT is right for you. And Women’s Health includes more than just the pelvis—if you’re experiencing pain in your back, SI joint, wrist or shoulder; or have been diagnosed with any bone density or osteoporotic disorders, one of EXCEL’s experienced physical therapists can help.
Make sure to visit the International Women’s Day website to learn more about their mission to educate women on their health and empower them to make their own health decisions.
Happy International Women’s Day!
**The medical information contained herein is provided as an information resource only, and does not substitute professional medical advice or consultation with healthcare professionals. This information is not intended to be patient education, does not create any patient-provider relationship, and should not be used as a substitute for professional diagnosis, treatment or medical advice. Please consult with your healthcare provider before making any healthcare decisions or for guidance about a specific medical condition. If you think you have a medical emergency, call your doctor or 911 immediately. IvyRehab Network, Inc. disclaims any and all responsibility, and shall have no liability, for any damages, loss, injury or liability whatsoever suffered as a result of your reliance on the information contained herein.
The medical information contained herein is provided as an information resource only, and does not substitute professional medical advice or consultation with healthcare professionals. This information is not intended to be patient education, does not create any patient-provider relationship, and should not be used as a substitute for professional diagnosis, treatment or medical advice. Please consult with your healthcare provider before making any healthcare decisions or for guidance about a specific medical condition. If you think you have a medical emergency, call your doctor or 911 immediately. IvyRehab Network, Inc. disclaims any and all responsibility, and shall have no liability, for any damages, loss, injury or liability whatsoever suffered as a result of your reliance on the information contained herein.