Male and female bodies are different, so why would you expect your physical therapy not to reflect this? For many women, physical therapy addresses a variety of conditions that primarily impact women. For example, women often come to physical therapy to learn more about addressing pelvic floor issues.
So, how does physical therapy differ for women compared to men? These are some of the things physical therapy will address that are more specific to the female body.
Osteoarthritis
Women are more prone to arthritis and bone conditions, especially if they do not have the calcium they need to build strong bones. If you experience arthritis that impacts your joints, like your knees, you may benefit from physical therapy that helps you improve your range of motion. Exercises, massage, and other therapeutic techniques can help you feel more comfortable in your skin.
Pelvic Floor Concerns
For many women, the pelvic floor is a problematic area. The pelvic floor can prolapse if your pelvic floor muscles are weak, for example. In other cases, women who have conditions like vaginismus benefit from physical therapy exercises, dilation exercises, and even massage.
Athletic Injuries
Women may experience athletic injuries. These injuries may result in sprains, strains, and other injuries because of the way muscle and weight build on the body. The injuries you experience can be much different from the injuries a man may experience.
Post-Menopause Concerns
For many women, injuries and ailments can become more prominent after menopause. The body changes in more ways than one when you are going through or have gone through menopause, and physical therapy helps address the concerns you have, including those you have with your bones and pelvic floor.
Post-Surgery Treatment
Women undergo some surgeries that men do not endure as often. For example, they may have scar tissue after breast cancer surgery. You may experience other health concerns because of the surgery and other treatments you have gone through. All of this means that you may need some help getting your body back to the way it was before surgery.
Physical therapists use a variety of methods to treat you, including massage, muscle stimulation, laser therapy, mobilization, exercise, and more. It is important that you make an appointment with a physical therapist to go through your treatment plan and to make some goals that will help you work toward a healthier lifestyle.
If you have additional questions not answered here, contact a local physical therapist.
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