Pelvic Floor Therapy: A Holistic Approach to Pelvic Health

Pelvic floor physical therapy and chiropractic care can work synergistically to address musculoskeletal and neuromuscular imbalances that contribute to pelvic pain, dysfunction, or postural issues. By improving alignment and reducing nerve irritation through chiropractic adjustments, the body is better positioned to support effective pelvic floor muscle function. Together, these approaches can enhance overall core stability, relieve pain, and promote long-term recovery, especially in conditions like pelvic girdle pain, postpartum recovery, or chronic low back pain.

We routinely refer our patients to a local pelvic floor physical therapist. Ashley Clark from Elevate Physical Therapy is here to educate us more about the importance of maintaining proper pelvic floor function and health.

Ashley Clark, PT, DPT

Why a Holistic Approach to Pelvic Health Matters During Pregnancy and Postpartum

As a pelvic floor physical therapist, I often remind women that the pelvic floor is rarely the root of the problem—it’s usually the innocent bystander trying to keep up with everything else happening in the body.

This is especially true during pregnancy and postpartum, when your body is constantly adjusting. As your baby grows, your posture shifts, your breathing changes, and your core is working overtime to keep you going. After delivery—whether it’s your first or third—your body is in recovery mode, even if you’re too busy to really notice.

Things like leaking when you sneeze, feeling pressure down there, or not feeling quite “right” in your core aren’t just pelvic floor issues. They’re signs that your whole system is out of sync. Focusing only on the pelvic floor is like trying to fix a traffic jam by only clearing one intersection—it might help a little, but it won’t solve the bigger problem.

Full-body approach

That’s why I take a full-body approach. We look at how you move, how you breathe, how your core and hips are supporting you, how your scars are healing, and even how stress might be showing up physically. When everything works together, the pelvic floor can finally stop overcompensating and start functioning the way it’s meant to.

You’ve been through a lot. Your care should reflect that—and meet you where you are.

What Symptoms May Indicate Pelvic Floor Dysfunction?

Strength training

Pelvic floor dysfunction can present in a variety of ways, often signaling that something is off balance in the body. Common symptoms include urinary leakage (like when you sneeze, cough, or laugh), pelvic pressure or heaviness, difficulty fully emptying your bladder or bowels, and pain during sex. If you’re experiencing any of these, it’s important to address them early, as they can affect your overall well-being and quality of life.

The Benefit of Proactive Care During Pregnancy

Many women believe pelvic health issues are simply an inevitable part of pregnancy and postpartum, but proactive care can significantly reduce the risk of dysfunction. By addressing posture, core strength, breathing patterns, and pelvic alignment before issues arise, you can help prevent common symptoms like incontinence and pelvic pain. Starting care early not only supports a smoother pregnancy and postpartum recovery but also helps your body better adapt to the changes that come with carrying and birthing a baby. A little prevention can go a long way in ensuring your pelvic floor stays healthy and functional, minimizing the chances of long-term complications.

Ashley Clark, PT, DPT

About the Author: Ashley Clark, PT, DPT, is a pelvic health physical therapist who works with women in all stages of life, with a special focus on pregnancy and postpartum. She takes a whole-body approach to help women feel strong, supported, and at home in their bodies again—because motherhood changes everything, and so should your care.