09/14/2025
I just attended a Pelvic Floor Symposium at UNC Chapel Hill! It was an excellent multi topic presentation covering both Women and Mens Pelvic Floor issues.
There were some tough topics such as a presentation by Forensic Nurses who perform exams and collect evidence after sexual abuse in both women and children. Did you know that it takes up to 18 months for the Police to process the exam kit!!??
Other topics were Pelvic Floor issues re Children, and bed wetting. Did you know that the best methods for treating and prevention are utilising activities that promote the development sequence of movement ( vs trying to teach children Kegels exercises)?
We also learned about Trauma Informed care and more effective patient interviewing and communication techniques to help the patient feel more safe and in a protected environment during clinical treatments. Non judgemental communication and meeting the client where they are , are important. Making your clinic environment less sterile looking, and more comfortable is helpful too!
We learned about the latest robotic techniques utilized from radical prostatectomy and other treatment techniques for prostate cancer and how physical therapists play an important role regarding rehabilitation of the pelvic floor pre and post operative to improve /regain continence and sexual function
We also learned about a currently controversial topic regarding gender transition, via surgical methods, offered at UNC. We learned about the current guidelines in NC, regarding age limitations. A client must be at least 18 to receive hormonal treatment. And to consider surgery. They must go through a period of psychological counseling. Physical Therapists can play a role in post operative rehabilitation and understanding what the surgical procedures are and precautions helps for a more effective Physical Therapy Plan of Care.
All in all I learned a lot about some topics I had not been previously well informed, and I know I can directly apply what I learned to the Physical Therapy clinic , and to my Health Coaching clients at Integrative Therapies. Many Pilates principles apply to Pelvic Floor Rehabilitation, so I can interface the Pilates method on a post rehabilitation and Integrative Lifestyle Medicine platform at Club Fitness too!
