Understanding Pelvic Floor Physiotherapy
Pelvic floor physiotherapy, also known as pelvic floor physical therapy, is a specialised treatment that strengthens the pelvic floor muscles and addresses various pelvic floor dysfunctions.When a rectal prolapse occurs, it means that the tissue inside the rectum loosens and comes out through the anus. This can happen if the muscles around the rectum become weak. At first, the rectum might come out and then go back in, but if it’s not treated, it could stay out all the time.
Pelvic Floor Therapy Treats:
Overactive pelvic floor muscles
Bladder problems Pelvic floor dysfunction Diastasis rectus abdominis (tummy gap) Musculoskeletal pain Bowel problems Pelvic pain Pelvic floor weakness Understanding Pelvic Floor Physiotherapy
Pelvic floor physiotherapy, also known as pelvic floor physical therapy, is a specialised treatment that strengthens the pelvic floor muscles and addresses various pelvic floor dysfunctions.When a rectal prolapse occurs, it means that the tissue inside the rectum loosens and comes out through the anus. This can happen if the muscles around the rectum become weak. At first, the rectum might come out and then go back in, but if it’s not treated, it could stay out all the time.
Pelvic Floor Therapy Treats:
Overactive pelvic floor musclesBladder problemsPelvic floor dysfunction Diastasis rectus abdominis
(tummy gap)
Musculoskeletal pain Bowel problems
Pelvic pain Pelvic floor weakness
How Does the Pelvic Physiotherapy Work?
Treating tight pelvic floor muscles usually involves manual therapy, breathing exercises, awareness exercises, biofeedback, and techniques to help relax and stretch the pelvic floor. Depending on the situation, an internal vaginal or rectal examination may be recommended, with consent always sought beforehand. Patients can ask for someone to be present during the examination for extra support. It’s important for patients to communicate any discomfort or request to stop the examination.
Treatment may involve learning to perform pelvic floor exercises independently and monitoring fluid intake and urination. Some patients may also be advised to use specific equipment to strengthen their pelvic floor muscles. Patients are encouraged to voice any concerns they may have to ensure their comfort throughout the process.
The primary goal is to comprehensively understand the patient’s condition and provide customised treatment. Patients will receive guidance on pelvic floor-strengthening exercises and may be required to track their fluid intake and urination. Patients may also receive recommendations for specific equipment to support their treatment when necessary.
Treatment At a Glance
Purpose
Procedure Duration
Anaesthesia
Purpose
Improve the functionality of pelvic floor muscles
Pain
No Pain to mild
Procedure Duration
30-90 minutes per session
Recovery Time
Improvements are seen within 4-6 weeks
Drive
Immediately after sessions
Anaesthesia
Not required
Recovery Time
Pain
Drive
Benefits of Pelvic Floor Physiotherapy
Management of Incontinence
Helps in managing urinary and bowel incontinence by strengthening the pelvic floor muscles.
Pelvic Pain Relief
Effective in easing chronic pelvic pain through targeted exercises and manual therapy.
Postpartum Recovery
Helps to recover pelvic floor function after childbirth, improving overall pelvic health.
Improved Pelvic Organ Support
Improves the support for pelvic organs, effectively reducing symptoms of prolapse.
Enhanced Pelvic Floor Functionality
Improves the strength, coordination, and endurance of pelvic floor muscles, promoting better overall pelvic health.
Enhanced Bladder Control
Helps in managing urinary incontinence by strengthening the pelvic floor muscles.
Pelvic Floor Physiotherapy Cost
Consultations start at £200. Please request a callback by filling out the contact form. We look forward to assisting you!
Why Choose Leicester Bowel Clinic?
At Leicester Bowel Clinic, we focus on bowel health and conditions, digestive issues, and cancer care. Our clinic offers minimally invasive procedures for bowel problems, ensuring effective results and patient comfort. We aim to provide personalised care for our patients and offer the latest treatments for hernias, bowel conditions and rectal disorders
Patient Testimonials
Mr Chaudhri is an excellent surgeon I can’t thank him enough for the operations he performed on me after i was diagnosed with bowel cancer, the care he showed me before and after the operations, his friendly nature and reassurance was a great help to me during a stressful time in my life i owe so much to him and i will always be grateful to him and his colleagues .
Written by an NHS patient
I’ve been under Mr Chaudhri’s care for around 2 years now and he has always shown me the best, personal care I could ask for.
Written by an NHS patient
This doctor spoke to you and made jokes to make you feel at ease. He was also clearly very knowledgable, and his words/advice were comforting and I left feeling uplifted. With regards to the procedure itself, he wasn’t aggressive but nor was he too slow where you had time to consider the slight discomfort; the pace and strength were fine and made for a quick and easy colonoscopy.
Written by an NHS patient
Our Locations
Leicester Bowel Clinic at Spire Hospital
- Wednesdays evenings (Mr Runau) from 6:00 pm until 9:00 pm at: Spire Leicester Hospital Gartree Road Leicester LE2 2FF
- To arrange an appointment directly with the Spire Leicester Hospital, please call the booking line on 0116 2653685
*Free on-site parking is available.
The Health Suite
- CLINICS The Health Suite Thursday evenings (Mr Chaudhri) from 6:00pm until 8:00pm at:The Health Suite, 624a Uppingham Rd, Leicester LE7 9QB
- To arrange an appointment directly with The Health Suit, please call the booking line on 0116 241010
*Free on-site parking is available.
Leicester Bowel Clinic at Nuffield Health Leicester Hospital
- 1st and 3rd Friday of the month (Mr Chaudhri) from 5:30 pm until 8:00 pm at: Nuffield Health Leicester Hospital, Scraptoft Ln, Leicester LE5 1HY
- To arrange an appointment directly with The Nuffield Hospital, please call the booking line on 0300 1311416
*Free on-site parking is available.
FAQs
01. What are the signs of rectal prolapse?
- Leaking stool or having no control over bowel movements.
- Leaking mucus or blood from the anus.
- Feeling like you need to have a bowel movement right away and feeling like your bowels are full.
- Having many small bowel movements.
- Feeling like you couldn’t completely empty your bowels.
- Anus discomfort, including pain, itching, and bleeding.
- Seeing red tissue sticking out of the anus.
02. Can pelvic floor therapy be useful for rectal prolapse?
Pelvic floor physiotherapy and biofeedback may help lessen the effects of rectal prolapse. Learning better ways to have bowel movements and avoiding straining can reduce the chances of rectal prolapse coming back or making the symptoms worse.
03. What are the common causes of rectum prolapse?
When the supporting tissues of the rectum weaken and stretch, they stop working properly, causing the rectum to prolapse. These tissues, like the pelvic floor muscles, act as a supportive hammock.
Some common reasons for rectal prolapse are:
- Getting older
- Chronic constipation and straining during bowel movements
- Chronic diarrhoea
- Pregnancy and giving birth
- Anal intercourse
- Cystic fibrosis
04. What's the most effective way to deal with rectal prolapse?
Surgery is the most effective treatment for serious rectal prolapse. Other options include lifestyle changes, such as eating more fibre, staying hydrated, and getting regular exercise.
05. Can pelvic floor physiotherapy help with prolapse?
Pelvic organ prolapse can lead to pressure, urination issues, and pain. Many women find that doing pelvic floor exercises or using a vaginal pessary can improve the symptoms.
06. How do you treat rectal prolapse?
Gently apply pressure to slide the prolapse back into place. This process may take a few minutes. If swollen tissue makes it difficult, a sugar solution can be used to reduce the swelling and make it easier to fix.
07. Can rectal prolapse get better on its own?
Rectal prolapse happens when the rectum slips down into the anus. Unlike haemorrhoids, they won’t go away on their own and will eventually need surgery to fix them.
08. What is the success rate of pelvic floor therapy?
Pelvic floor exercises are effective in 29-59% of cases. The therapy’s success depends on the type and severity of the dysfunction.
09. How long does pelvic physiotherapy take?
The initial appointment can last 60 to 90 minutes for questions and evaluation. Subsequent sessions usually take 30 to 60 minutes.
10. How long until pelvic floor exercises work for prolapse?
Most people notice some improvement after 4 to 6 weeks, but major changes may take up to 3 months. Additionally, doing pelvic floor exercises when you are likely to pass urine can help.
11. What are the common complications after rectal prolapse repair?
The risks of rectal prolapse surgery include bleeding, bowel obstruction, and damage to nearby nerves or organs.
12. Is it okay to push my prolapse back up?
No, you should not try to push a prolapsed vagina back up yourself. Only your healthcare provider should treat a prolapsed vagina. You might feel the prolapse and need to push it back up to go to the bathroom, but doing so is just a temporary solution and won’t fix the prolapse permanently.
