What is Pre & Post-Surgery Physiotherapy for Pelvic Floor Surgery & Hysterectomy
Condition | Common symptoms | Treatment options | Physiotherapy Benefits
Pre & post-operative physiotherapy is about proactively addressing and strengthening your **pelvic floor** before surgery, giving your body the best possible chance to heal effectively and regain optimal function after a Pelvic floor surgery or hysterectomy.
The pelvic floor muscles act as a support system for your pelvic organs, including the bladder, bowel, and uterus. When these muscles are weakened, it can lead to various issues, such as **urinary incontinence** and **pelvic organ prolapse**.
Common Symptoms Post-surgery, linked to Pelvic Floor Dysfunction
- Urinary Incontinence
- Bladder issues (UTIs, Painful Urination, Difficulty Emptying the Bladder)
- Bowel Issues (Constipation, Fecal Incontinence, Bowel Pain, etc.)
- Pelvic Pain
- Lower Back Pain
- Cramps/Ovary Pain
- Painful Sex (**Dyspareunia**)
- Loss of Libido (Sex Drive)
- Vaginal Dryness
Physiotherapy Treatment Options
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Comprehensive Assessment and Examination
We will listen to your whole story and ask you many questions to understand your symptoms. Our assessment includes:
- Evaluating pelvic floor function
- Assessing posture and movement patterns
- Identifying musculoskeletal restrictions and weaknesses
- Understanding pain triggers and daily activity limitations
This helps us create a personalised treatment plan that works for you.
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Visceral Mobilisation
Surgery can create adhesions and restrictions in the organs, which exacerbate your symptoms and contribute to additional discomfort. **Visceral Mobilisation** is the use of gentle, hands-on techniques to:
- Improve the mobility of the diaphragm and the abdominal and pelvic organs
- Reduce adhesions and scar tissue restrictions
- Enhance circulation to affected tissues
Many of our patients find this approach deeply relieving immediately—it’s like giving your body the space it needs to move freely again.
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Pelvic Floor Rehabilitation
Research (1) shows that postoperative pelvic floor rehabilitation can improve symptoms, function, and quality of life. Our techniques include:
- Manual Therapy
- Pelvic Floor Relaxation/Strengthening Exercises
- Biofeedback Training
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Exercise and Movement Therapy
We’ll work with you to help you connect with your body and create an exercise plan that feels right for you. This might include:
- Yoga and Pilates-Based Exercises
- Strength and Conditioning Workouts
Physiotherapy Benefits:
- Pain relief
- Reducing Post-operative Complications
- Improved muscle function
- Body/ Pelvic Floor Awareness
- Education & Self-management
- Post-surgical rehabilitation
- Improved quality of life
References
de Oliveira NFF, Santuzzi CH, da Conceição TV, Freitas JMV, Liberato FMG, Nascimento LR. Pelvic floor muscle training for urinary symptoms, vaginal prolapse, sexual function, pelvic floor muscle strength, and quality of life after hysterectomy: a systematic review with meta-analyses. Braz J Phys Ther. 2024 Sep-Oct;28(5):101122. doi: 10.1016/j.bjpt.2024.101122. Epub 2024 Oct 10. PMID: 39426098; PMCID: PMC11513449.