Why someone would work with a Pelvic Floor Occupational Therapist
OT’s have a very unique perspective within the pelvic health specialty. Some may ask what the difference between OT and PT’s are in pelvic health. PF PT’s are great at working on functional skills. OT’s in pelvic health adopt the larger lens of functional independence. Yes, strengthening muscles is important, but safely picking up your baby from the floor while protecting your core is the goal. OT’s focus on the task and work backwards from there.
Here are 4 reasons why OT’s are in a uniquely awesome position to support pelvic health clients
Holistic practitioners
Occupational therapy’s roots are in both physical and mental health. We are trained to acknowledge and manage psychological and emotional factors associated with pelvic health. Dealing with such a sensitive part of the body, it’s only natural that there are psychological and emotional effects of pelvic issues. OT’s are in the position to see clients as a complex system with multiple layers.
Considerations to environment
Occupational Therapy has a OT Clinical Framework. Through this lens we use a model called ‘person-performance-environment’. OT’s consider the person as a whole (e.g., spiritual self, body structures, body functions), the performance skills (motor skills, processing skills) and performance patterns (habits, routines), and the environment (physical, cultural, temporal, social). Consideration to one’s environment is important. Attention is given to all aspects of someone’s environment which may include home set up, work space, where they spend their time, ergonomics, and home modifications.
Emphasis on function
Functional Independence. That’s the key. OT’s certainly care about how to strengthen muscles, but determining muscle grade isn’t the goal. It’s what that strength allows a client to do that matters most (cough cough, toileting and sexuality without distress is a big part of function!)
Client centered
OT’s are experts at listening. Listening to their clients, because they are the experts of their own bodies. After all, they live in it all day every day. What matters most is what matters to each client, which makes your experience in pelvic floor OT anything but cookie cutter.
Has anyone worked with a pelvic floor OT? What’s been your experience? Any OT’s out there have other thoughts to add!?