Orthopedic Physical Therapy
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At ALIGN we know that pain can be disabling, and Susan McLaughlin, PT has devoted time and resources into understanding the contributing factors that create recurring back and neck pain.
Chronic stress, muscle imbalances, poor alignment, lack of mobility/stability, and overall compensations lead to misuse and wear and tear on the body which manifests as:
In addition to symptoms above, Susan specializes in the treatment of Pregnancy and Postpartum related Conditions:
At ALIGN you will be given the education, awareness and the tools to decrease pain and return to optimal function. |
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Pelvic Health Physical Therapy
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What is Pelvic Health?
Housed within the pelvis and abdomen we have 3 physiologic systems: reproductive, urinary, digestive. The framework of this house is our musculoskeletal and nervous system. Pelvic health requires integration of all these systems. When treating pelvic pain, the area of involvement can include the organs, the abdomen, spine, pelvis, hips and legs. The pelvis is a pivotal area because this is where we carry our center of mass. The position of the pelvis during standing, walking, sitting and other daily activities will affect the function of the organs, the spine, the pelvis, and the lower extremities. The pelvis is also our area of sexual function. How we feel about ourself in the world in relation to sexuality, intimacy, creativity, emotion and personal power play out in the tissues and organs. |
From a Musculoskeletal Standpoint, Pelvic Health Requires:
How Can Physical Therapy Help?
According to the World Confederation for Physical Therapy, 'a physical therapist provides services to people and populations to develop, maintain and restore maximum movements and functional ability throughout the lifespan.' Physical therapists are trained to be experts in musculoskeletal pain and dysfunction. Physical therapists who specialize in Pelvic Health have additional training in the function of the pelvic floor and the role it plays in reproductive, urologic and gastrointestinal health.
- Optimal movement and loading strategies of the pelvic girdle to provide mobility and stability.
- Optimal muscle function to ensure appropriate blood flow and nerve conduction for pelvic and organ health.
- Optimal alignment to ensure appropriate positioning of the pelvic organs to prevent prolapse and menstrual/bladder dysfunctions.
How Can Physical Therapy Help?
According to the World Confederation for Physical Therapy, 'a physical therapist provides services to people and populations to develop, maintain and restore maximum movements and functional ability throughout the lifespan.' Physical therapists are trained to be experts in musculoskeletal pain and dysfunction. Physical therapists who specialize in Pelvic Health have additional training in the function of the pelvic floor and the role it plays in reproductive, urologic and gastrointestinal health.
"Each year, pelvic floor dysfunction affects 300,000 to 400,000 American women so severely that they require surgery. Approximately 30% of the operations performed are re-operations. The high prevalence of this problem indicates the need for preventive strategies..."
-Delancy 2005
The emphasis of the health sciences on fitness and wellness has brought to men and women's attention a need to pay closer attention to their bodies during recreation, work, and throughout life. Many physical therapists have specialized training which will benefit men and women with a variety of medical conditions. These physical therapists use every facet of their physical therapy training to evaluate and treat male & female clients, promoting and enhancing health through the life span. All treatments are individually designed after thorough evaluation (information taken from the Women's Health Section Website).
Pelvic Health Physical Therapy Can Help You With:
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Orthopedic and Pelvic Health Telehealth/Video Sessions
It is amazing how effective video sessions can be for addressing orthopedic and pelvic health issues!
During the initial evaluation we will address your current concern and expand outward toward where you want to be. We will spend some time connecting the dots by looking at past history and the nature of your current presentation. The assessment will focus on postural alignment, breathing patterns, nervous system regulation, movement strategies and biomechanics. The treatments will focus on education and exercise. In order for change to happen, the brain and body need to rewire and make new connections.
During the initial evaluation we will address your current concern and expand outward toward where you want to be. We will spend some time connecting the dots by looking at past history and the nature of your current presentation. The assessment will focus on postural alignment, breathing patterns, nervous system regulation, movement strategies and biomechanics. The treatments will focus on education and exercise. In order for change to happen, the brain and body need to rewire and make new connections.
Video Sessions are for you if:
- You do not have a Pelvic Health Physical Therapist in your area and you want some tools to get out of pelvic pain or improve core health: urinary, abdominal, reproductive, digestive, pelvic organs.
- You are Postpartum and are looking for ways to heal and improve core functions: abdominal wall separation/pelvic organ prolapse or are experiencing pain with intercourse or return to exercise.
- You are leaking urine with laugh/cough/sneeze or during exercise.
- You are pregnant and experiencing rib pain, sciatica, pubic or sacroiliac pain.
- You have joint or back pain and are interested in healing your body with an alignment and functional based approach.
Not Local & Not able to afford a video session?
The FEEL GOOD SERIES movement downloads are dedicated to creating 15-30 minute movement sequences designed to decrease muscle tension, improve mobility and decrease pain. Click on the pic below to access the store.
Understanding Pain
When people are in pain, especially chronic pain, it’s usually confusing and scary. This uncertainty causes stress, anxiety, and fear of movement – all of which can make the pain more severe. Learning how pain works can make it less scary.
Here is a 5 minute video that will provide a great introduction into understanding the process of pain.
Here is a 5 minute video that will provide a great introduction into understanding the process of pain.