Pelvic Health: Physical Therapy for Every Body

Men and women have unique health needs over their life span. Pain or problems that impact the pelvis are not gender specific, though the causes often are. Most people are not aware that there is specialized treatment for the pelvic area that can help them achieve greater comfort and return them to their desired level of function.

Our pelvic health specialists have attained specialized training through additional education and clinical practice to help them address these issues. While this is clearly an area that not all physical therapists chose to pursue with focus and passion, our pelvic health physical therapists have been inspired to provide excellence in this burgeoning field.

You’re invited to watch our brief video of an overview of Alpine’s Pelvic Health Program. Click the video player below to view.

Our pelvic health physical therapy specialists have expanded their careers to help meet the unique pelvic health needs of women and men. Their compassionate spirit and genuine care have infused our pelvic health outreach; Alpine continues to be recognized by doctors and clients as the leader in providing pelvic health services for everyone, regardless of gender or age.

Below is a list of information and frequently asked questions about pelvic health. Click on the topic to expand.

What Conditions do we Treat?
What should I expect from my First Visit?
Your pelvic health therapist will first discuss with you your primary reason for seeking physical therapy services. She will also review key elements of your past medical history. A thorough examination is done for the spine, hips and pelvis as appropriate. Your therapist will talk with you about your condition. In the event an internal pelvic floor examination is warranted, she will educate you on why this would be beneficial for treatment. An internal exam allows your therapist to ensure that you are correctly recruiting and activation the proper muscles. Based on the results, your home program is then individualized for optimal results. Additionally, the internal exam alerts your therapist whether there is over activity or tension present in the muscles. If so, your treatment may require that you start out with relaxation or muscle retraining prior to muscle strengthening.
What is a Kegel?
A Kegel is synonymous with pelvic floor contraction. Its name comes from Dr. Arnold Kegel, a gynecologist whose research in the 1940’s led to the introduction of this set of exercises as an appropriate tool for the treatment of urinary incontinence. Activation of the key pelvic floor muscles is often done incorrectly, which can negatively impact the patient’s condition. Correct activation includes a squeezing and lifting of the perineal muscles inward without over working the gluteal or abdominal muscles. Working with your Her Health therapist is critical to ensure that your technique is correct and finely tuned, resulting in successful resolution of your symptoms.
Do I need a referral?
This depends on your insurer. Montana allows direct access to physical therapy services, which means you may not need a prescription. Although many insurance companies do not require a prescription or referral for physical therapy, others do. Thus, it’s important to check and see whether this benefit is available prior to starting physical therapy. Our patient care coordinators are here to work with you and your insurer to help sort this out.
Get Started
    1.  To schedule an evaluation, call our Alpine North clinic at 406-541-2606.
    2.  Arrive 15 minutes early for your first session.