The Benefits Of Physiotherapy In Women’s Health

It is important to understand that there are several physical and physiological attributes that are unique to women, and physiotherapy plays an important role in women’s health.

Three functions in particular, are unique to women. These include menstruation, pregnancy, and lactation. These functions are intricately tied to complex hormonal patterns in women, which also influence behavior.

Some of the fundamental physical differences between men and women include:

• Women tend to have a higher proportion of body fat than men. This fat is generally stored in the breasts, hips and buttocks.
  
• Men tend to have more body hair and muscle mass

Physiotherapists understand the physical differences (and unique needs) of the female population and are uniquely qualified to assist women to live healthy, pain-free lives.

Healthy Aging for Older Women

Specific actions need to be taken to ensure healthy aging for older women. Physiotherapy can help identify (and eliminate) risk factors for falls and fractures. Regular strengthening and weight bearing exercise can slow down the reduction in bone density as women age. You may be asked to visit your physician to learn about the risks and benefits of hormone replacement therapy. Screening for calcium, vitamin D and vitamin B12 deficiency is also recommended. Pelvic floor dysfunction and incontinence can also be treated with physiotherapy.

Here are some of the conditions (some of which tend to be more common among women) in which physiotherapy can play an important role:

• Osteoarthritis
• Incontinence (Bladder and Bowel)
• Vaginal Prolapse
• Rehabilitation following breast surgery
• Lymphedema
• Pelvic Inflammatory Disease
• Post-menopausal heart disease
• Chronic myofascial pain      
• Sexual dysfunction
• Hypermobility syndrome
• Multiple sclerosis
• Sacroiliac (SI) joint dysfunction
• Fibromyalgia
• Ailments unique to female athletes e.g Perineal pain

Physiotherapy helps reduce discomfort and enhance recovery before, during and after pregnancy. Pregnancy related issues can also include heel pain (plantar fasciitis) and associated aches and pains.

Physiotherapy and Women’s Health

Exercises and techniques to treat issues specific to women include:

• Muscle retraining – This creates body awareness (how you get in and out of your car, how you bend to pick things up, how you sit, overall posture, etc.) and improves movement patterns. Kegel exercises to strengthen weak pelvic floor muscles in addition to Pilates can be very beneficial.
  
• Exercise Therapy – helps improve mobility, strength, and endurance. This also strengthens bones and joints.
  
• Modalities – Application of heat and/or ice, electrical stimulation therapy, and massage therapy to reduce pain, stiffness, and swelling.
  
• Manual therapy – helps improve joint and soft tissue flexibility and mobility by using repetitive and specific hands-on movements and motions.

Every physiotherapy program is different and is customized to the patient’s needs. Women have unique physical and physiological attributes that physiotherapists take into consideration.

Physiotherapy is highly beneficial to women’s health. Don’t hesitate to ask us about what we can do for you.

PCA is here for you. To know more, call us on 0813 028 0496!