Pelvic Health Level 1: Bladder Control and Pelvic Floor Examination

Start your Pelvic Health Practice: Bladder Control and Pelvic Floor Examination

Designed for Physical Therapists (PTs), Occupational Therapists (OTRs), Physical Therapist Assistants (PTAs) and Occupational Therapist Assistants (COTAs).

Course Type: Live Course | Delivery Method: In-Person Class

Gain Confidence in Pelvic Floor Assessment and Treatment! This foundational course provides a comprehensive introduction to pelvic health, focusing on bladder control and pelvic floor examination techniques.

What You Will Gain:

• In-Depth Understanding of Pelvic Health:

  • Anatomy and Function: Develop a strong foundation in the anatomy and function of the pelvic floor, including muscles, nerves, and connective tissues. Learn to identify normal and abnormal anatomical variations.

  • Physiology of Micturition: Explore the intricate processes involved in bladder filling and emptying and understand how disruptions can lead to bladder control problems.

  • Pelvic Floor Disorders: Gain a comprehensive overview of common pelvic floor disorders, including:

    • Urinary Incontinence (UI): Explore the different types of UI (stress, urge, mixed, overflow) and their underlying causes.

    • Pelvic Organ Prolapse (POP): Understand the risk factors, symptoms, and stages of POP.

    • Male Prostate-Related Bladder Control Problems: Learn how prostate conditions can affect bladder function in men.

• Hands-On Examination Skills:

  • For PTs and OTs: Internal and External Examination: Develop proficiency in performing internal and external vaginal and rectal examinations to assess pelvic floor muscle function, identify trigger points, and detect abnormalities.

    1. Palpation Techniques: Master palpation techniques to evaluate muscle tone tissue quality and identify areas of tenderness or restriction.

    2. Live Simulated Patients/Models: Practice your examination skills on live simulated patients/models in a safe and supervised environment. This unique opportunity allows you to refine your technique and build confidence.

  • For PTAs: Enhance your understanding of pelvic floor anatomy and function to assist PTs in providing patient care.

• Evidence-Based Interventions:

  • Therapeutic Exercise: Learn to prescribe scientifically dosed pelvic floor muscle training exercises to improve strength, endurance, and coordination.

  • Behavioral Interventions: Educate patients on lifestyle modifications, bladder retraining techniques, and strategies to manage urgency and frequency.

  • Biofeedback: Gain experience with sEMG perineal biofeedback and pressure biofeedback to help patients become aware and control their pelvic floor muscles.

  • Neuromuscular Electrical Stimulation: Understand the principles and application of NMES for pelvic floor muscle re-education.

• Clinical Decision-Making:

  • For PTs and OTs, Differential Diagnosis means Learning to differentiate between musculoskeletal and medical diagnoses based on patient history, symptoms, and examination findings.

    1. Rehabilitation Goal Setting: Develop individualized rehabilitation goals for patients with LUTS and/or POP, considering their specific needs and functional limitations.

  • For all participants: Understand the role of the interdisciplinary team in managing pelvic floor disorders.

Course Instructor: Ruth Jenkins PT, COMT, CMTPT/DN, Pelvic Health and Wellness, Instructor FYZICAL Therapy and Balance Centers

Disclosure Statements: The instructor has no financial interest in any product shown on the course.