Pelvic Floor Massage Therapy

What is pelvic floor massage therapy?
Massage therapy for pelvic floor muscles is extremely beneficial and compliments Pelvic Floor Physiotherapy. The pelvic floor contains many ligaments and muscles that interconnect and act as a base of support for the pelvis. Massage therapy can work on all the muscles that attach to the pelvis; hamstrings, hip flexors, glutes, your core (including diaphragm and the deep lumbar and abdominal muscles). It is no wonder that when our pelvis shifts from posture, or tight muscle, pain and discomfort begins to take its toll. Massage therapy works to release these muscles and regain proper balance and tone.
 
Note: Unlike physiotherapy, massage therapists do not assess or treat pelvic floor symptoms internally. Anne will work on the surrounding structures, and ease tension of muscles, fascia and ligaments through muscle manipulation and movement techniques. 
 
Who can benefit from pelvic health massage therapy?
The following symptoms may be relieved by pelvic floor massage therapy:
  • Rectal genital abdominal discomfort or pain
  • Pain with functional movement such as sitting or standing
  • Pain during or after sexual activity
  • Increased urinary frequency, hesitancy & pain, leaking
  • Feelings of incomplete emptying
  • Discomfort around bladder
  • Constipation and digestive discomfort
 
A lot of the above symptoms have a few things in common, which is tight muscle. When these muscles are tight and constricted, we might feel discomfort, pain, or have imbalance in our function. When we are able to release and retrain our muscles of the pelvis, we begin to see improvements in the system overall. Less tension and pressure = less pain and dysfunction.
 
Tight muscles that attach to our pelvis have the ability to misalign the boney structure itself. When there is tight muscle on one side, the opposing muscles may weaken. This teeter-totter effect on our pelvis can cause symptoms such as: low back pain, tailbone pain, constipation, and pain with our functional movement, like sitting, walking, and standing.
 
Is pelvic floor massage therapy only for pre and post pregnancy?
Many assume that pelvic floor work is only indicated for pregnant women, due to the effects of carrying baby, child birth, and a narrower hip alignment. In fact, female patients of all ages (puberty through post menopause) are referred for pelvic floor work. This is because everyone experiences tight musculature and stress. Any sign or symptom of tight musculature and/or stress is indicated for massage therapy, no matter the age.
 
Does pelvic floor massage therapy hurt?
No. However, therapy will be include working muscles in sensitive areas, which may be uncomfortable. Anne will work with you and your pain and comfort level every step of the way. If you experience any pain, always let the therapist know.
 
What will the first appointment include?
At your first appointment, Anne will take you through an assessment and ask questions to cater each treatment to your body’s specific needs. Unlike pelvic floor physiotherapists, she cannot assess or treat pelvic floor symptoms internally. Anne will work on the surrounding structures, and ease tension of muscles, fascia and ligaments through manipulation and movement techniques. It is recommended that clients work with a pelvic floor physiotherapist along with massage therapy for a well rounded treatment plan. 

NOTE: If you are interested in this specific treatment, please book a regular massage for whichever time suits you, and this will be incorporated into your session.
Visit my RESOURCES page for pelvic floor exercises and finding Pelvic Floor Physiotherapists and practitioners.
Anne holds additional certification in:
Treating Pelvic Conditions, Pelvic Floor Health - Sutherland Chan School of Massage Therapy
Lymphatic Drainage Massage - Centre for Natural Health & Holistic Studies
Thai Yoga Massage - Still Light Centre
Paediatric Massage (4-12 years) - Massage for Kids
Healthy Breast Educator (women's health) - Sat Dharam Kaur, ND (Mammalive)
Nutrition + Dietetics - Shaw Academy
Myomassology - Canadian Institute of Myomassology
Abdominal + Visceral Massage - Bodyology Massage School
Traditional Chinese Fire Cupping, Tui Na, Raindrop Therapy, Aromatherapy - Aromatica School of Holistic Studies

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Anne the RMT

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​Wortley Village
​London, Ontario N6C 1E4