PHYSICAL THERAPY IN WILMINGTON, DE

Pelvic floor physical therapy is a specialized area of rehabilitation focused on the muscles, connective tissue, and nerves of the pelvic floor. These muscles control bladder and bowel function, support pelvic organs, contribute to sexual function, and play a key role in core stability. When they are not working properly, the effects can be significant and often deeply personal.

Common signs of pelvic floor dysfunction include:

• Leaking urine with coughing, sneezing, or exercise — stress incontinence caused by pelvic floor weakness or poor coordination
• Frequent or urgent need to urinate — urgency incontinence or overactive bladder symptoms
• Pelvic pain or pressure — a heavy or dragging sensation, especially when standing for long periods
• Pain with intercourse — discomfort caused by pelvic floor muscle tightness or guarding
• Difficulty fully emptying the bladder or bowel — incomplete voiding caused by pelvic floor incoordination

Pelvic floor dysfunction can manifest as weakness (causing incontinence or prolapse), tightness (causing pain or difficulty with urination), or incoordination (causing incomplete emptying or difficulty activating the muscles at the right time). Each type requires a different treatment approach. Physical therapy for the pelvic floor is recommended as first-line treatment by the American Urological Association, American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, and other major medical organizations.

Treatment begins with a comprehensive evaluation that may include external and, when appropriate, internal assessment of the pelvic floor muscles. Your therapist will explain each step of the evaluation beforehand, and you will always have full control over what is included. Nothing happens without your understanding and consent.

Based on your evaluation, treatment may include:

• Pelvic floor strengthening — progressive exercises to build strength and endurance in weak pelvic floor muscles, going well beyond basic Kegels
• Pelvic floor relaxation — techniques to release tension in overactive or tight pelvic floor muscles that contribute to pain or difficulty voiding
• Coordination training — teaching the pelvic floor muscles to activate at the right time during coughing, lifting, and other functional activities
• Core stabilization — integrating pelvic floor function with the deep core muscles for comprehensive trunk and pelvic stability
• Behavioral strategies — bladder retraining, urgency management techniques, and habit modification to reduce symptoms
• Manual therapy — hands-on techniques to address muscle tightness, scar tissue, and trigger points in the pelvic floor and surrounding areas

Every session is one-on-one with a licensed physical therapist in a private treatment room. This specialized, individualized approach ensures your care is tailored to your specific type of pelvic floor dysfunction and progressed at a pace that is comfortable for you.

We understand that pelvic floor therapy can feel unfamiliar or intimidating. Our therapists are specifically trained in this specialty and prioritize creating a comfortable, private, and respectful treatment environment. You are always in control of the pace and scope of your care, and your therapist will answer any questions you have before, during, and after each session.

Most patients see meaningful improvement in symptoms within four to eight weeks of consistent treatment and home exercise. Success depends significantly on commitment to the home program your therapist designs for you. Pelvic floor therapy is appropriate for people of all ages and genders — these conditions are common, treatable, and nothing to feel embarrassed about.

Common conditions that respond well to pelvic floor physical therapy include urinary incontinence, pelvic pain, pregnancy and postpartum issues, post-surgical recovery, and pelvic organ prolapse symptoms. If you are unsure whether pelvic floor therapy is right for you, we are happy to discuss your concerns before scheduling.

We accept most major insurance plans, including Medicare and Medicare Advantage. In Delaware, you do not need a physician referral to begin physical therapy. Our front desk team can verify your benefits before your first visit. Call (302) 998-7681 or use our online scheduling tool to book your evaluation.