Pelvic Floor Therapy For Kids
Being a kid can be challenging but dealing with pelvic floor dysfunction adds another layer of difficulty. Many children suffer from pelvic floor-related conditions that cause embarrassment and poor self-esteem. At Pelvic Wellness, we help children as young as 4 years old (with a guardian pesent) with pelvic floor related conditions. In this blog post, we will delve into the world of pediatric pelvic floor therapy and explore the conditions it can help address.
What can pelvic floor therapy help for kids?
Pelvic floor health is important for children as it can affect their overall physical and emotional well-being. A properly functioning pelvic floor helps with bowel and bladder control as well as posture and balance. Pelvic floor dysfunction in children can lead to a range of issues. Some of the common conditions we treat in children are
“Bedwetting” or Nocturnal Enuresis
Constipation
Urinary Incontinence (leakage)
Overactive Bladder
Fecal Incontinence
Pelvic Pain
Anatomy and Function of the Pelvic Floor
The pelvic floor is a group of muscles that form a “sling” at the bottom of the pelvis. People of all genders have pelvic floor muscles.
The pelvic floor muscles play a crucial role in maintaining bowel and bladder control. They also work as a part of the core for posture and support of the body. Lastly the pelvic floor works to support the organs including the bowel, uterus and rectum and have a role in sexual functioning.
The Benefits of Pelvic Floor Therapy for Kids
Pediatric pelvic floor therapy can significantly improve a child's quality of life. Early intervention with pediatric pelvic floor physical therapy can help children develop good habits and techniques for maintaining a healthy pelvic floor as they grow and develop. It can also promote proper bladder and bowel control, which can have a positive impact on a child's self-esteem and confidence.
How Pediatric Pelvic Floor Therapy Works
Pelvic floor therapy for kids looks different than for adults. The approach to pediatric pelvic floor therapy is always gentle and age-appropriate. Here are some common techniques used in treatment:
Education: Educating both the child and their parents about the pelvic floor and its functions is a crucial first step. Understanding how these muscles work can empower children to take control of their pelvic health.
Behavioral Modifications: Teaching children healthy bathroom habits, such as proper posture during voiding and regular bathroom breaks, can make a significant difference in managing pelvic floor dysfunction.
Exercises: Simple and fun exercises are designed to help children gain awareness and control of their pelvic floor muscles. These exercises are often disguised as games or activities to keep the child engaged.
Biofeedback: This involves using special sensors and computer screens to provide visual feedback on muscle activity. It helps children see how their pelvic floor muscles are working and learn how to control them better.
Home Exercise Program: To help children continue their progress outside of therapy sessions, a home exercise program may be prescribed. This may include a combination of the techniques mentioned above, as well as other exercises and activities tailored to the child's specific needs. Consistency with a home exercise program can greatly improve the effectiveness of pediatric pelvic floor physical therapy.
Key Components of Pediatric Pelvic Floor Therapy
Effective communication between the therapist, child, and caregiver is crucial for the success of pediatric pelvic floor physical therapy. As the therapist, we explain the treatment plan and goals to both the child and caregiver, and regularly check in with them to ensure understanding and address any concerns. It is important that both the child and caregiver feel comfortable communicating any changes or improvements in symptoms to the therapist.
In some cases, a child may require additional support from other specialists in conjunction with pelvic floor physical therapy. This could include referrals to a pediatric urologist, gastroenterologist, or psychologist. The therapist will work closely with these specialists to ensure a comprehensive treatment plan for the child's specific needs.
Conclusion
Pediatric pelvic floor therapy is a specialized and effective approach to managing a variety of pelvic health conditions in children. At Pelvic Wellness Physical Therapy, we are dedicated to providing compassionate and individualized care to help children overcome these challenges. If your child is experiencing any pelvic floor-related issues, don't hesitate to reach out to us. Together, we can make a positive difference in your child's health and well-being.
Set up a complimentary discovery call to determine if we are a good fit for you by contacting us or schedule an evaluation here for your child. Let's work together to ensure your child leads a happy, healthy, and comfortable life.
