Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy Treatments 

A DPT is a "Doctor of Physical Therapy." They are a healthcare professional who has completed a doctoral-level program in physical therapy and is licensed to practice physical therapy.

Pelvic Floor Physical Therapist are the true experts in musculoskeletal system.

DPT programs typically take three to four years to complete and include coursework in anatomy, physiology, pharmacology, kinesiology, exercise prescription, and other related topics. Students also gain clinical experience through internships and other practical training opportunities.

After completing a DPT program, graduates must pass a licensing exam to become a licensed Physical Therapist (PT).

WCS stands for "Women's Clinical Specialist." It is a board certification program offered by the American Board of Physical Therapy Specialties (ABPTS) that focuses on advanced knowledge and expertise in the physical therapy management of pelvic health conditions.

Physical therapists who obtain the WCS certification have completed advanced training in the evaluation and treatment of a range of health conditions, such as pelvic pain, urinary incontinence, pelvic organ prolapse, pregnancy and postpartum musculoskeletal conditions, and breast cancer-related rehabilitation.

The certification process includes a rigorous examination and demonstration of advanced clinical skills and knowledge, as well as ongoing continuing education requirements to maintain the certification. PTs with a WCS certification can provide specialized care to people throughout their lifespan, improving their quality of life and overall health.

PRPC stands for "Pelvic Rehabilitation Practitioner Certification." It is a certification program offered by the Herman & Wallace Pelvic Rehabilitation Institute that focuses on advanced training in the evaluation and treatment of pelvic floor dysfunction.

Physical therapists who obtain the PRPC certification have completed advanced training in the management of a range of pelvic floor conditions, such as urinary incontinence, pelvic organ prolapse, chronic pelvic pain, and sexual dysfunction. They have also demonstrated advanced clinical skills in pelvic floor muscle assessment, manual therapy techniques, and exercise prescription for pelvic floor rehabilitation.

The certification process includes completion of several courses offered by the Herman & Wallace Pelvic Rehabilitation Institute, as well as a comprehensive examination and demonstration of advanced clinical skills and knowledge. PTs with a PRPC certification can provide specialized care for patients with pelvic floor dysfunction, helping to improve their quality of life and overall health.

The PCES certification equips Physical Therapists with advanced techniques and exercises for pelvic health, going beyond traditional methods to improve alignment, strength, and address the root causes of pelvic floor issues from pregnancy. It offers a comprehensive approach, integrating a variety of perspectives and personalized adjustments to ensure effective treatment plans for individuals at any fitness level before, during, or after pregnancy.

Trauma-informed pelvic floor physical therapy is an approach to treating pelvic floor dysfunction that takes into account the impact of trauma on the body and the mind. This type of physical therapy recognizes that many people with pelvic floor dysfunction may have experienced trauma, whether physical, sexual, or emotional, that can affect their symptoms and their ability to receive treatment. At Chicago Pelvic, we prioritize employing a trauma-informed approach and have collaborated with mental health trauma experts to educate our team on optimal care practices.

These problems can include urinary and fecal incontinence, pain during intercourse, chronic pelvic pain, and other related issues.

Trauma-informed pelvic floor physical therapy focuses on creating a safe and supportive environment for patients, recognizing the potential impact of trauma on their symptoms and treatment, and using a variety of techniques to help patients manage their symptoms and improve their quality of life.

Some of the key principles of trauma-informed pelvic floor physical therapy include:

We have created a safe and supportive environment for our patients, we treat our patients in a private treatment room, also allowing patients to bring a support person with them to appointments, and using language that is respectful and non-judgmental.

Recognizing the potential impact of trauma on patients' symptoms and treatment, and working with patients to develop a treatment plan that takes their unique needs and experiences into account.

Using a variety of techniques to help patients manage their symptoms and improve their quality of life, including manual therapy, exercises, relaxation techniques, and other approaches as appropriate.

Encouraging patients to play an active role in their own care, and providing them with education and resources to help them better understand their condition and the treatments that are available.

Overall, trauma-informed pelvic floor physical therapy is an approach that recognizes the complex interplay between physical and emotional health, and seeks to provide patients with the tools and support they need to manage their symptoms and improve their quality of life.

CIDN stands for "Certified Integrated Dry Needling." It is a certification program offered by the Integrative Dry Needling Institute that provides advanced training for physical therapists in the use of dry needling as a treatment technique.

Dry needling involves the insertion of a thin needle into trigger points, or areas of muscle tightness and pain, in order to release tension and promote healing. PTs with a CIDN certification have completed advanced training in the use of dry needling for musculoskeletal conditions, such as neck pain, back pain, shoulder pain, and knee pain.

The certification process includes completion of several courses offered by the Integrative Dry Needling Institute, as well as a comprehensive examination and demonstration of advanced clinical skills and knowledge. PTs with a CIDN certification can use dry needling as part of a comprehensive treatment plan for patients with musculoskeletal conditions, helping to reduce pain and improve function.

The physical therapy Cert. DN refers to "Dry Needling." Dry needling is a treatment technique that is used by some physical therapists to address pain and muscle dysfunction. It involves inserting a thin needle into specific points in the muscle, with the goal of releasing tension, improving blood flow, and reducing pain.

Dry needling is based on the principles of traditional acupuncture, but differs in several key ways. While acupuncture is a traditional Chinese medicine practice that involves the use of needles to stimulate energy flow along specific pathways in the body, dry needling is a Western-based approach that targets trigger points in the muscle.

In order to practice dry needling, physical therapists must undergo specialized training and certification. The certification DN indicates that a physical therapist has completed the necessary training and met the requirements for certification in dry needling.

It's worth noting that not all physical therapists are trained in or certified to perform dry needling. If you're interested in this type of treatment, it's important to find a physical therapist who has the appropriate training and experience.