Women's health physiotherapy refers to the non-surgical treatment specific to various health problems affecting women. During the course of therapy, specially designed exercises and equipment are implemented to help patients return to their normal physical activities.
Generally, physiotherapy for women includes:
- Diagnosis and treatment of various underlying causes affecting the joints, muscles, and nerves at different phases in a woman's life
- Awareness and education in self-help measures
- Improvement of posture and movement
- Structured exercise programs based on the individual needs
Pregnancy-related physiotherapy
The following pregnancy-related conditions are :
- Pain in the lower back, pelvic region, rib, and thoracic region, headache, neck pain, and stiffness
- Muscle weakness of the pelvic floor
- Urinary stress incontinence (urine leakage due to weakness in the pelvic floor muscles)
- Leg cramps
- Weakened abdominal muscles and bladder
- Pain or numbness in the wrist and hand
The physiotherapy treatment includes:
- Management of posture
- Advice on the delivery position
- Pelvic support belts for women with pelvic girdle instability and pain
Musculoskeletal physiotherapy
Injury to the muscles, tendons, joints, ligaments, and nerve tissues may result in muscle weakness, inflammation of the joints, and pressure on nerves. These conditions may cause various symptoms such as pain, muscle weakness, swelling, and numbness. Massage, exercises, and Pilates (exercise using special apparatus) are the various hands-on treatment techniques provided.
Physiotherapy for Osteoporosis
Osteoporosis is a 'silent' disease, characterized by weakening of bones, making them more susceptible to fractures, typically in the hip and spine. Elderly people and especially post-menopausal women are at greater risk of developing osteoporosis.
Physiotherapy can help prevent further bone loss and reduce the risk of bone fractures. Strengthening exercises for bones is of high importance in maintaining the health of osteoporotic bones.
Physiotherapy for Urinary Incontinence
Urinary incontinence also referred to as overactive bladder, is the inability to control the flow of urine. Leakage of urine occurs due to weakness of the pelvic floor muscles as a result of injury, pregnancy, surgery, or lack of exercise.
Physiotherapy session includes:
- Diet modifications to avoid bladder irritation
- Pelvic floor exercises to strengthen the pelvic floor
- Methods to reduce urinary urgency and frequency
Other Therapies
