Frequently Asked Questions

Pelvic floor physical therapy is a specialized form of PT focused on the muscles, ligaments, and connective tissues of the pelvic region. It addresses issues like incontinence, pelvic pain, sexual dysfunction, and core weakness.

If you experience leakage, pelvic pain, constipation, heaviness in the pelvis, pain during intimacy, or difficulty with core activation, you may benefit from pelvic floor PT.

No. California is a direct access state, which means you can see a physical therapist without a physician referral.

Your first session includes a detailed health history, discussion of your symptoms, movement assessment, and with your consent, an internal and/or external pelvic floor exam.

Many PPO plans reimburse for pelvic PT services. We are an out-of-network provider and can provide a superbill for you to submit for reimbursement.

This is known as stress urinary incontinence and is often due to weak or uncoordinated pelvic floor muscles.

This could be urge incontinence or overactive bladder, often linked to tight pelvic floor muscles, poor bladder habits, or nerve dysfunction.

Yes. Addressing pelvic muscle tone, hydration habits, and bladder training can reduce nighttime frequency.

Yes. Many people perform Kegels incorrectly or aren’t prescribed the right exercises. We provide a customized approach beyond Kegels.

No, this is common but not normal. It can be improved with proper pelvic floor assessment and treatment.

Yes. We address muscle tightness, scar tissue, posture, and breathing to reduce pain and improve intimacy.

This may be pelvic organ prolapse, often treatable through pelvic PT and lifestyle modifications.

Persistent pain is not normal and may be due to muscle dysfunction, nerve irritation, or scar tissue. Pelvic PT can help.

Yes. Coccyx pain can be related to muscle tightness or alignment issues and responds well to pelvic floor PT.

Often, unresolved hip or back pain is linked to poor pelvic floor coordination, stability, or postural imbalances.

Yes. We assess coordination of pelvic floor muscles and provide strategies to improve bowel motility and mechanics.

This may be related to overactive pelvic muscles or nerve sensitivity. PT can address both.

Absolutely. We work on strength, timing, and coordination of pelvic floor muscles involved in bowel control.

You can start gentle pelvic floor work as early as 6 weeks postpartum with clearance from your OB or midwife.

Yes. We assess and treat abdominal wall function, core engagement, and pressure management.

Yes. We teach strategies for breathing, pushing, and perineal lengthening to reduce trauma and improve outcomes.

Every person is different, but most benefit from 8–12 weeks of guided therapy to regain full function.

Yes. Men experience many of the same pelvic dysfunctions as women, including pain, leakage, and post-surgical complications.

Yes. Pelvic floor rehab can significantly improve urinary control and quality of life post-surgery.

This can be due to referred pain from pelvic floor muscle tension, nerve irritation, or chronic prostatitis.

Imbalances in the pelvic floor can lead to asymmetries, poor core engagement, and reduced control in the saddle.

Yes. We address tissue changes, bladder urgency, dryness, and pain through therapeutic exercise and education.

Absolutely. Whether you're lifting, running, or riding, we help optimize pelvic function for peak performance.

Yes. Runners often experience pelvic floor issues due to repetitive impact and core-pelvic imbalances. We assess strength, timing, and biomechanics to improve control and comfort.

Yes, with your consent. Internal exams provide valuable insight into muscle tone, trigger points, and function.

Yes. We often prescribe breathing drills, mobility work, and coordination exercises. Tools like dilators or wands may be used and prescribed if appropriate.

Treatment plans are individualized. Most patients benefit from 6–12 sessions depending on their condition.

All sessions are one-on-one for 55 minutes with a Doctor of Physical Therapy. No aides or groups.

We are centrally located in San Luis Obispo and proudly serve the entire Central Coast including Santa Maria, Arroyo Grande, Atascadero, Templeton, and Paso Robles.