What to Wear to Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy
Introduction
One of the most common questions we receive at our pelvic floor clinic is, "What should I wear to pelvic floor physical therapy?" This may seem like a minor detail, but it's an important consideration to ensure your comfort and the effectiveness of your treatment. In this blog, we'll cover everything you need to know about what to wear to your pelvic PT sessions, why it's important, and some tips for making the best clothing choices.
Understanding Your Pelvic PT Session
Before diving into clothing specifics, it's essential to understand what happens during a pelvic floor physical therapy session. This will help you better appreciate why certain clothing choices are recommended.
Movement Analysis
The first part of your examination will typically involve a movement analysis. Your therapist will observe how your entire body moves. They will look at things like the flexablity of your hips or back, your squatting mechanics, your single leg balance, or how you activate your core. This part of the session is crucial for identifying any movement dysfunctions or imbalances that could be contributing to your pelvic floor symptoms.
Abdominal and Pelvic Floor Assessment
The next step usually involves assessing your abdomen and internal pelvic floor muscles. This assessment can include both external and internal examinations. The external examination might involve checking your abdominal wall and other related muscles, while the internal examination focuses on the pelvic floor muscles.
Choosing the Right Clothing
Now that you understand the general flow of a pelvic floor PT session, let's discuss what to wear to ensure you're comfortable and that your therapist can perform a thorough assessment.
Comfortable, Flexible Clothing
For the movement analysis part of your session, it's important to wear comfortable and flexible clothing. Here are some recommendations:
Leggings, Yoga, Workout Pants: These are ideal because they allow you to move freely and enable your therapist to see how your legs and hips are moving.
Loose-Fitting Shirt: A loose shirt that you can easily lift up for abdominal assessments is recommended. This ensures your therapist can access your abdominal area without difficulty.
Easy-to-Remove Clothing
During the internal examination, you will need to undress from the waist down. Therefore, wearing clothing that is easy to take on and off is beneficial. Avoid clothing that is difficult to remove, such as:
Rompers and Jumpers: While stylish, these can make it challenging to stay comfortably draped during the internal examination.
Tight Jeans or Restrictive Clothing: These can hinder your therapist's ability to assess your movement accurately and can be uncomfortable to remove and put back on.
Footwear and Socks
Though it might not be the first thing you think of, your choice of footwear can also impact your session:
Comfortable Shoes: Wear shoes that are easy to slip off and on. Avoid high heels, which can affect your posture and movement during the session.
Warm Socks: Clinics can sometimes be chilly, so wearing warm socks can keep you comfortable when you have to remove your shoes. Of course we always keep some extra warm socks around for our patients.
Special Considerations
Periods and Pelvic PT
Many patients wonder if they can still attend pelvic PT sessions while on their period. The answer is yes. Physical therapy during menstruation is not contraindicated, and as long as you are comfortable, your session can proceed as scheduled. If you have any specific concerns, discuss them with your therapist.
Post-Session Considerations
After your pelvic floor PT session, you might have some lotion or lubricant on your skin from any manual therapy performed. If you need to return to work or have other engagements, consider bringing a change of clothes, especially if you wear something more casual for the session.
Why Your Clothing Choices Matter
Choosing the right clothing for pelvic floor physical therapy isn't just about comfort; it plays a significant role in the effectiveness of your treatment. Here are a few reasons why your clothing choices matter:
Accurate Assessment
Loose and flexible clothing allows your therapist to see how your body moves and functions. Tight or restrictive clothing can provide false information about your flexibility and range of motion, leading to less accurate assessments.
Comfort and Ease
Feeling comfortable during your session helps you relax and focus on the exercises and assessments. If you're worried about your clothing, it can distract you and affect the quality of your therapy.
Therapist Accessibility
Your therapist needs easy access to various parts of your body to perform a thorough examination and treatment. Wearing appropriate clothing ensures that they can work effectively without any hindrances.
Additional Tips
Avoid Wearing Jewelry: Large pieces of jewelry can get in the way during your session. It's best to leave them at home.
Bring a Water Bottle: Staying hydrated is important, especially if your session involves physical exercises.
Communicate with Your Therapist: If you have any concerns about what to wear or how to prepare for your session, don't hesitate to ask your therapist for advice.
Conclusion
Choosing the right clothing for your pelvic floor physical therapy sessions can make a significant difference in your comfort and the effectiveness of your treatment. Remember to wear comfortable, flexible, and easy-to-remove clothing, and consider the specific needs of your session when making your choices. By following these guidelines, you'll be well-prepared for a productive and comfortable pelvic PT experience.
For more information or to schedule an appointment with one of our qualified pelvic floor physical therapists, visit our website or contact us today. Your comfort and progress are our top priorities, and we're here to support you every step of the way.
Written by:
Dr. Jana Richardson, PT, DPT, WCS, PRPC, CIDN
Dual Board Certified Pelvic Floor Therapist and Owner of Chicago Pelvic Health
Dr. Jana Richardson is a highly accomplished pelvic floor therapist with dual board certifications and extensive experience in treating complex pelvic floor dysfunctions. As the owner of Chicago Pelvic Health, Dr. Richardson is dedicated to providing personalized and effective care for her patients. With a Doctorate in Physical Therapy, and specialized certifications in Women’s Health and Pelvic Rehabilitation, Dr. Richardson is a leading expert in her field. She is also certified in Integrative Dry Needling, further enhancing her ability to offer comprehensive treatment plans. Dr. Richardson’s commitment to patient-centered care and her passion for helping individuals achieve optimal pelvic health make her an invaluable asset to the community.