How Physical Therapy Can Improve Pelvic Health for All
—September Newsletter —
Find out how you can find relief for difficult-to-discuss symptoms
Do you struggle with conditions you find difficult to talk about–such as incontinence, bowel issues, or sexual dysfunction? Know that you aren’t alone. These conditions affect millions of people around the world, fortunately our physical therapist at Movement Specialists Physical Therapy are highly experienced with helping people find lasting solutions.
Many people are hesitant to discuss pelvic floor health because it involves our most private bodily functions. Fortunately, the physical therapist at Movement Specialists Physical Therapy understand your concerns and are ready to guide you on a discreet path toward finding relief.
Call us today to request an appointment and find out more about how we can help!
How the pelvic floor affects your quality of life
The pelvic floor is a group of muscles stretching across the bottom of the pelvis like a hammock. This hammock holds up the pelvic organs, including the bowels, bladder, and sexual organs, and ensures that they’re operating correctly. While pelvic floor health can be a difficult conversation, it is important, no matter your gender.
The following conditions are all related to the pelvic floor–and can be experienced by anyone:
- Bladder incontinence, urgency, or hesitancy
- Bladder pain
- Constipation
- Bowel incontinence
That said, because pelvic floor health includes our sexual organs, some pelvic floor conditions will vary for men and women.
For women, pelvic pain is often associated with the menstrual cycle, including heavy periods and intense period pain. However, certain sexual concerns might also be related to the pelvic floor, including painful intercourse or anorgasmia.
For men, sex-specific pelvic floor conditions might include sexual concerns such as erectile dysfunction or premature ejaculation. However, the prostate is also part of the pelvic floor, so prostate pain might be another potential symptom.
What to expect from your pelvic floor treatment
When you come in for your appointment, our physical therapist will start by reviewing your symptoms. Don’t be shy! Remember that they’re here to help (and they’ve probably heard it all already).
They’ll also work with you to develop a treatment plan. The good news is that, when caught early, many of these pelvic floor conditions can be treated easily. Major interventions such as surgery are rarely necessary unless a condition has gone untreated for too long–which is why it’s so important to reach out as soon as possible.
Reach out for your appointment today!
At Movement Specialists Physical Therapy, we understand that pelvic floor health is a sensitive matter. We also know how important it is that pelvic concerns be treated quickly and effectively so that our patients can live happier, healthier, and fuller lives.
If you’re suffering from any problems “down there,” don’t hesitate to call us–we’re here to help!
Sources: https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s40520-020-01712-y, https://www.healthline.com/health/fitness-exercise/pelvic-floor-exercises, https://medicine.umich.edu/sites/default/files/content/downloads/Development%20and%20Validation%20of….pdf, https://www.continence.org.au/who-it-affects/men/male-pelvic-floor-muscles
What is Pelvic Health Physical Therapy?
Pelvic Health Physical Therapy is a specialized type of physical therapy that specializes in treating issues that specifically affect the pelvic floor. The pelvic floor is a group of muscles that sit within the base of the pelvis. The main functions of these muscles include support for the pelvic organs, bowel and bladder control, and sexual function. Everyone has a pelvic floor. Dysfunction in this part of the body can be socially isolating, cause pain or discomfort, and have a significant impact on an individual’s quality of life. A pelvic therapist can help patients connect with their bodies in order to address the physical, emotional, and behavioral components that contribute to pelvic floor dysfunction.
What is Pelvic Floor Dysfunction?
Pelvic Floor Dysfunction is when a person has difficulty controlling the muscles of the pelvic floor due muscular weakness, tension, or decreased coordination. This can lead to urinary and fecal incontinence as well as pain and discomfort during daily activities.
What Can I Expect During My First Visit?
When you come for your evaluation, you will be treated in a quiet, private room. Your therapist will start by talking with you about your specific condition, medical history, and your desired goals. This may involve questions about your urinary and bowel habits, diet, sexual function, and daily activities or hobbies. You will then receive a complete evaluation of your posture, breathing patterns, abdominal muscles, low back, hips, and your pelvis which includes your pelvic floor muscles. The examination of the pelvic floor may consist of an internal examination to determine your strength and coordination and also to see if you have any tension. Following the evaluation, a treatment plan will be created to address your specific needs and goals.
Location! Location! Location!
We’re excited to share that Movement Specialists Physical Therapy has expanded with a third location in Gretna! This new clinic at 59 Westbank Expressway, Gretna, LA 70053 reflects our continued commitment to making high-quality, personalized physical therapy more accessible across the greater New Orleans area.
Our Gretna location is staffed by experienced providers including Hunter Beaugez, Joseph Squatrito, and Elise Hood, offering the same evidence-based care our patients know and trust. Whether you’re recovering from injury, managing pain, or working toward better movement, our team is here to help you stay active and feel your best.
Meet the Team at Gretna!
Behind every successful recovery is a team that truly cares, and we are incredibly proud to introduce the clinicians serving our Gretna community:
- Dr. Joseph Squatrito, PT, DPT, OCS, MTC – Owner & Physical Therapist
- Dr. Hunter Beaugez, PT, DPT – Clinical Director & Physical Therapist
- Dr. Addie Johnston, PTA – Physical Therapist Assistant
- Dr. Elise Delahoussaye Hood, PT, DPT – Pelvic Floor Physical Therapist
Together, our team is committed to providing personalized, one-on-one physical therapy in a state-of-the-art facility. Whether you are recovering from surgery, dealing with orthopedic pain, sports injuries, dizziness or balance issues, or seeking specialized pelvic floor care, we are here to help you get back to doing what you love.
We are honored to be serving the West Bank community and look forward to building lasting relationships with our patients and local healthcare providers. Come by, say hello, and see what makes Movement Specialists Physical Therapy different.
Movement Specialists Physical Therapy – Gretna 59 Westbank Expressway Gretna, LA 70053
Phone: (504) 962-8806
Try Our New Word Search!
💡 How to Play
Welcome! Test your Pelvic Health knowledge. Spell all 8 hidden words using the clues below. Type your word in the box and click Submit. Can you find them all?
Important note: You can use each letter in the grid more than once! Good luck!
Found Words (0/8):
🩺 Puzzle Clues
All 8 hidden words relate to Pelvic Floor Health. If you read our latest article, you’ll definitely recognize these!
- (6 Letters) The Structure: The bony area at the base of the spine that contains the pelvic floor.
- (7 Letters) The Shape: The pelvic floor muscles stretch across the bottom like one of these.
- (7 Letters) The Organ: Exercises and training can help treat incontinence or hesitancy in this organ.
- (7 Letters) The Treatment: A manual therapy technique applied internally and externally to soothe muscles.
- (7 Letters) The Tissue: The pelvic floor is made of these, and they can be strengthened like any other.
- (8 Letters) The Gland: A male-specific organ that is part of the pelvic floor.
- (8 Letters) The Practice: A series of exercises focusing on strengthening the pelvic floor or bladder.
- (6 Letters) The Contents: The pelvic floor holds up the bowels, bladder, and sexual ________.
Do You Know Someone That Needs Our Help?
Advanced Pain Relief Now Available in Metairie!
We’re thrilled to announce that Movement Specialists Physical Therapy is now offering Shock Wave Therapy and Smart Ice Laser Therapy – cutting-edge treatments designed to accelerate healing, reduce pain, and promote recovery for stubborn injuries like plantar fasciitis, tendon pain, and more. These services are available exclusively at our Metairie location and provided as self-pay options. Using the 45W Smart Ice Laser and Focused Shockwave units, our team can help target pain at the source and get you moving again – faster and more effectively than ever before.
Patient Success Stories
“I have been very pleased with my therapy sessions at Movement Specialists. I see a therapist each time I come, and he explains everything. The techs are helpful, knowledgeable, and are on top of things. I have experience with John, Kaylyn, Emily, and Hunter. They are always pleasant and encouraging. My therapist, Hunter, is the best. This business is fabulous!”
–C.M.
Healthy Recipe:
Meat Loaf
This traditional meat loaf recipe creates a tender, juicy meat loaf topped with a caramelized glaze. The best part: It’s so easy to make, and it’s ready to eat in about an hour!
Ingredients
- 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
- 3/4 cup 2% milk
- 2/3 cup finely crushed saltines
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon rubbed sage
- Dash pepper
- 1-1/2 pounds lean ground beef (90% lean)
- 1 cup ketchup
- 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 350°. In a large bowl, combine the first 7 ingredients. Add beef; mix lightly but thoroughly. Shape into an 8×4-in. loaf in an ungreased 15x10x1-in. baking pan.
- In a small bowl, combine remaining ingredients, stirring to dissolve sugar; remove 1/2 cup for sauce. Spread remaining mixture over meat loaf.
- Bake 60-65 minutes or until a thermometer inserted in meat loaf reads 160°. Let stand 10 minutes before slicing. Serve with reserved sauce.
Did You Know You Can See a Physical Therapist Without a Referral?
Not everyone knows you can go directly to your physical therapist if you are dealing with pain or an injury. It doesn’t matter if you’re dealing with an old or new problem. In all 50 states, you can schedule a visit with one of our therapists to get help sooner than later.
Direct Access is all about having the freedom to make your own decisions without being bound by outdated rules. It allows you to be in charge of your healthcare so you can focus on your recovery instead of waiting for another appointment to get you the help you need today!
Direct Access also helps you save money, schedule when you want, and speeds up your recovery so you can get relief and get back to doing what you love. If you have questions about Direct Access or would like to schedule an appointment with a physical therapist, contact Movement Specialists Physical Therapy now!
Do You Have Friends or Family Unable to Do The Following?
- Move without pain
- Bend and move freely
- Balance confidently and securely
- Sit for long periods comfortably
- Walk for long distances
- Live an active and healthy lifestyle
If you know someone suffering from aches and pains give the gift of health. Refer them to Movement Specialists Physical Therapy today. Forward this newsletter or have them call us directly for a physical therapy consultation.
Let’s Get You Better ASAP!
Don’t let pain dictate your life. Take the first step towards reclaiming your mobility and well-being with our expert support. Start your journey to a healthier you today.
