In pelvic physical therapy you’re dealing with dysfunctional tissue, reduced blood flow, increased inflammation and in an area the body is wired to pay close attention to.
But pelvic physical therapy should never hurt. We can’t treat pain with more pain. And the idea of ‘no pain, no gain’ not only isn’t true, it’s actively harmful.
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Now, it can be uncomfortable, but there’s a major distinction. You shouldn’t be trying to ‘bear’ treatment.
The discomfort should ease during the session as the PT works on the tissue.
And your pelvic PT should be checking in to see how you’re doing if they’re working on a tender area.
In this ‘sode we discuss how to communicate with your pelvic physical therapist if things are hurting or if you need to seek a second (or third) opinion. Because there is a lot your physical therapist should be able to do if you are having pain in one area.
They can just work somewhere else (there’s plenty to do!).
They can relax your nervous system first.
They can use a different technique.
They can postpone working on that area until a different day.
They can help you find medical management to decrease pain before working there.
You should never be in pain during pelvic floor physical therapy. It’s counterproductive and harmful to the overall process. If you are, make sure you say something to your pelvic PT. And be prepared to get a second opinion if necessary!
As Nicole said in the full 'sode of the podcast on this topic...
"Pelvic physical therapy should never hurt. We can’t treat pain with more pain. And the idea of ‘no pain, no gain’ not only isn’t true, it’s actively harmful." -Nicole Cozean, Pelvic Sanity
If you’re dealing with pelvic health issues, make sure you join our free FB support group (Finding Pelvic Sanity), follow us for more information on Instagram (@pelvicsanity) and subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify for wherever you get your podcasts!
Who are we at PelvicSanity?
At PelvicSanity, it's our mission to support patients with pelvic pain and pelvic floor symptoms, regardless of where you live. We can help with:
- In-person treatment for those in Southern California at the PelvicSanity clinic
- Immersive Out-of-Town program for those able to travel
- Remote Consultations to get you expert 1:1 help, advice and an action plan
- Online patient courses on Interstitial Cystitis and Movement for Pelvic Health
- A Facebook support group for patients called Finding Pelvic Sanity.
