Main description:

An integrative and practical resource for physical therapists and patients to improve pelvic floor dysfunction symptoms

It is estimated that the incidence of women with at least one pelvic floor disorder will nearly double from 28.1 million to 43.8 million by the year 2050. Incontinence affects one in three women between the ages of 15 to 65, between one and three out of 10 men in the same age range, and an estimated 14% of adolescents under age 15. Pelvic floor dysfunction, incontinence, weakness, imbalance or excessive tightness can cause debilitating symptoms in men and women that can significantly impact quality of life. Fitness for the Pelvic Floor, Second Edition builds on the popular prior edition by internationally acclaimed physiotherapist Beate Carriere with new clinical applications and contributions from coauthor Dawn-Marie Ickes on topics physical therapy students need to learn.

The book starts with a section on anatomy and physiology of the pelvic floor, with discussion of breathing, muscles, tone differences, incontinence, and medications and nutrition. The second part features seven chapters detailing effective treatment options and exercises. Straightforward, simple exercises and heightened sensory awareness tips described in the text and presented in videos have proven to be the most efficacious treatment methods for many patients. Therapists will learn how to evaluate pelvic floor problems and develop and teach patients appropriate treatment strategies for specific situations, such as incontinence, dysfunctions after childbirth, and post-prostate surgery issues.

Key Highlights

Anatomical and physiological content and clear explanations of the correlation between breathing, the pelvic floor, and abdominal muscles enhance knowledge
Easy-to-follow exercise routines focus on activating and relaxing pelvic floor muscles
Definitions of essenti

Contents:

Part I Anatomy and Physiology of the Pelvic Floor

1 Introduction

2 Layers of the Pelvic Floor

3 Evaluation of Breathing

4 Functions of the Pelvic Floor Muscles

5 Understanding Tone Differences in the Pelvic Floor Muscles

6 Common Forms of Incontinence

7 Medications, Nutrition, Intake Fluid, and Hydration

Part II Treatment Options and Exercises

8 The Pelvic Floor-The Almost Forgotten Muscle Group

9 Sensory Awareness-Feeling the Pelvic Floor

10 Exercises to Increase Sensory Awareness, Skill, and Coordination of Muscles Attached to the Pelvic Floor

11 Exercises to Increase Sensory Awareness of the Breath and Its Connection to Pelvic Floor Function

12 Treatment with Functional Exercises

13 Functional Exercises for the Pelvic Floor

14 Stretching Exercises for the Muscles Surrounding the Pelvic Floor

Appendices A-E