The first session (the evaluation)  and follow-up visits run about 45-60 minutes, depending on your specific issue. You will be told what to expect on your first visit.

For the evaluation and most treatments you will need to remove your pants and underwear only. You will leave your top on. Many women find it comfortable to wear a dress or skirt and just pull it up; that is perfectly fine. Whatever you decide to wear, you will always be given a sheet to cover up with.  If you choose and do not wish to participate in the internal exam that is no problem, we can modify treatment.  This might not give us as clear of a understanding of your problem but we should still be able to make a Improvement in your condition.

Yes. It does not affect the treatment in any way.  If you choose to cancel your appointment we ask that you contact the office as soon as possible to make arrangements, reschedule your appointment and to avoid cancellation charges.

Treatments for urinary dysfunction consist mainly of pelvic floor muscle training as well as some core training and education. Treatments for pelvic pain consist mainly of pelvic floor muscle training, core training, breath awareness, relaxation training, manual therapy and/or soft tissue mobilization.

Yes. No internal exam will be completed if you are currently pregnant (please be sure to tell the therapist if you are pregnant). Treatments will be modified to accommodate your pregnancy.

Pelvic floor training is similar to doing Kegels. The motion is the same but there is a specific hold time, rest time and repetition number, for each person and each condition that will lead to optimal results. Also, research shows many people do Kegels incorrectly and pelvic floor training ensures that you are doing them right and achieving max benefit.   

Your therapist is a professional and has only your recovery in mind. While it is sometimes challenging to talk about your symptoms, it is very important to tell her everything that you are experiencing so she can help you as best as she can. Keep in mind that she is another female and has seen, heard or experienced most of the issues that come through her office.

Every patient is different, of course, but most patients with bladder dysfunction get better in 4-8 weeks.  Pelvic pain patients usually need 6-12 weeks.  Typically patients are seen twice a week in the beginning then reduced to 1 time a week once home program is established and depending on patient.  Again, it completely depends on the specific problem, exam findings and patient participation.

Yes, you will be given a core exercise program as well as a pelvic floor training program. Most exercises can be done anywhere, and can be fit into even the busiest schedule.

Feel free to contact Carol with any other questions or concerns you have at Lee Ann Nelson physical therapy  410-392-9400.