What is Pelvic Floor Therapy?
Pelvic floor therapy is treatment by a Physical or Occupational Therapist for the muscles relating to the pelvic floor. The pelvic floor is a group of muscles that form a saddle to support your uterus, bladder and bowel and are integral to their function. These muscles stabilize the trunk and are a base of support for the body, so pelvic floor dysfunction can lead to issues throughout the body. For example, if muscles in the pelvic floor are weak or hypertonic, it can lead to dysfunction such as sexual dysfunction, incontinence, constipation, pelvic pain, or low back pain.
Who can benefit from Pelvic Floor Therapy?
Those experiencing the following may benefit from pelvic therapy:
- Pain during intercourse
- Frequent urination
- Constipation or trouble voiding
- Pregnancy related issues including pre and post partum care, diastasis recti, scar management
- Endometriosis
- Sacroiliac pain
- Tailbone, lower back or hip pain
- Organ prolapse
What is Expected at your first visit?
Your first visit with a pelvic floor therapist will involve a thorough assessment of your medical history and symptoms. This will include an assessment of your posture, hips, abdominal and pelvic floor muscles. Looking at strength, mobility, and movement patterns can give insight into what may be contributing to your symptoms. The evaluation may also include an internal or external exam.
Meet Our Team
Lauren Chan
OTD, OTR/L
Lauren earned her Doctorate and Master’s in Occupational Therapy degree from Columbia University after receiving her Bachelor’s in Elementary and Special Education and Psychology from New York University. She has worked as a Hand Therapist and Upper Extremity specialist treating orthopedic and sports injuries. She is working toward her CHT certification at Hand + Physical Therapy NYC.
Lauren is also passionate about treating pelvic health conditions including chronic pelvic pain, pre and post-natal discomfort, bowel, bladder, and sexual dysfunction. She is committed to
empowering individuals through education. She strongly believes that by gaining a comprehensive understanding of the role and significance of the pelvic floor, individuals can
proactively take charge of their own health and well-being. Born and raised in Singapore, Lauren enjoys spending time with her dog, family, and friends. In her free time, she can be found baking, reading, and riding her bike.
Alex Siegrist
PT, DPT
Dr. Alex Siegrist received her doctoral degree in physical therapy from Hunter College and where she was the recipient of the Award for Clinical Excellence. She has been practicing as a Pelvic Floor therapist for all genders since her Pelvic Floor Clinical Affiliation in 2020, and she has taken over 100 hours of continued education for treatment of pelvic floor, musculoskeletal, and movement dysfunctions, including a 6-month mentorship with First Principles of Movement.
She believes a full body approach is important to restoring pelvic health and incorporates the principles of strength and conditioning, along with manual therapy, to enhance health and movement for all of her patients. Her experiences as a military veteran (USAF 2009-2015) gave her a strong desire to advocate for holistic care that treats every part of the body. Alex remains involved with veteran programs here in New York City and hopes to help increase awareness of pelvic health for veterans. In her free time, she enjoys training with kickboxing, yoga, kettlebell and weightlifting. She can be found exploring Brooklyn with her partner and their two dogs.
What is the goal of Pelvic Floor therapy?
Pelvic therapy can reduce pain and discomfort. With the help of your therapist, it can empower individuals with the necessary tools to prevent discomfort from returning in the future.