Beyond Kegels
A physical therapy program for women with bladder control issues, pelvic pain and discomfort, using biofeedback.
Pelvic Floor Rehabilitation
San Ramon Regional Medical Center’s Beyond Kegels program provides a comprehensive treatment approach for the pelvic floor region. Our experienced and specially trained physical therapist evaluates, treats and educates women:
Who May Benefit from Beyond Kegels
Women with the following conditions may benefit from this treatment:
Causes of Pelvic Weakness
The pelvic floor muscles are skeletal muscles that may become weak, tight or spasm as a result of disuse, over-use, surgery, trauma or infection. Pregnancy, vaginal birth, sports activities, chronic lung diseases, hysterectomy, hip surgery, falls on pelvic bones, or postural imbalances are all possible causes.
Weak muscles may cause urinary incontinence with coughing, sneezing or exercising. Weakness also may contribute to pain.
Some women develop increased tension in the pelvic floor muscles, which may cause irritation, burning, menstrual pain, skin conditions, and pain in referred areas such as vagina, vulva, coccyx, or sacrum.
Evaluation
During a patient's first appointment, a physical therapist will take an extensive medical history. The initial evaluation typically takes one hour. Following the history, the physical therapist will perform a thorough internal and external musculoskeletal examination, including:
- Pelvic joint assessment
- Biofeedback
- Evaluation of skin and connective tissues
- Myofascial and trigger point evaluation
- Pelvic floor examination checking for sensation and tenderness, muscle resting tone, connective tissue mobility, functional control and strength
After the evaluation has been completed, the physical therapist will discuss the assessment and treatment plan with the patient.
The patient is welcome to bring another person with them to any and all physical therapy appointments.
Treatment
Education, Therapy, Training
Treatment sessions will be based upon the personalized treatment plan. Most patients are seen one or two times a week. Many of our patients learn to use biofeedback to relax and control pelvic muscles. Treatment sessions may include some or all of the following:
- Connective tissue manipulation
- Biofeedback
- Neural mobilization
- Myofascial release
- Trigger-point release
- Scar treatment
- Neuromuscular re-education
- Sacroiliac, pubic, coccygeal joint, or lumbar spine mobilization
- Pelvic floor education and kinesthetic awareness training
- Functional retraining and strengthening
- E-stimulation
- Bladder health and self-care education
- Home exercise
- Family training
Beyond Kegels Location
South Building
Outpatient Therapy Services
7777 Norris Canyon Road
San Ramon, CA 94583
For an appointment, please call 925.275.8442.