If you’ve been referred for pelvic floor physical therapy (PFPT) in Chandler, you may be wondering what to expect and how to prepare. Whether you’re seeking relief from constipation, anal pain, pelvic pressure, or recurrent hemorrhoid symptoms, PFPT is a non-invasive, highly effective approach to improving function and comfort.
At Advanced Hemorrhoid Centers, we work closely with trusted pelvic floor therapists across Chandler and the East Valley. Our goal is to help you feel informed, confident, and prepared for your care. Here’s what you need to know before starting therapy.
What Is Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy?
Pelvic floor physical therapy focuses on retraining the muscles that support your bladder, bowel, and pelvic organs. These muscles play a key role in controlling bowel movements and relieving anorectal symptoms. PFPT is commonly recommended for:
- Chronic straining or constipation
- Anal spasms or rectal pain
- Recurrent hemorrhoids or incomplete emptying
- Pelvic pressure or heaviness
- Postpartum bowel and rectal symptoms
Therapists use specialized techniques — including manual therapy, biofeedback, breathing work, and muscle retraining — to improve how these muscles function and coordinate.
How to Prepare for Your First Appointment
Getting ready for your first PFPT visit is simple, but knowing what to expect can make you feel more at ease. Here are a few tips:
1. Wear Comfortable Clothing
You may be asked to do light movement or breathing exercises. Choose loose, flexible clothing that allows easy positioning.
2. Bring a List of Symptoms
Write down the symptoms you’re experiencing — even if they seem unrelated. Include bowel habits, pain patterns, pressure, or past treatments.
3. Understand That Internal Assessment May Be Involved
Your therapist may assess your pelvic muscles internally (vaginally or rectally), but only with your full consent. This is done gently and privately to evaluate muscle tone, strength, and coordination.
4. Don’t Worry About Being “Cleaned Out”
There’s no need to do an enema or bowel prep. A normal, hygienic routine is all that’s needed before your session.
5. Ask Questions
This is your care. Feel free to ask your therapist what techniques they’ll use, how long treatment might take, and what outcomes to expect.
What Happens During Pelvic Floor Therapy?
Each session is tailored to your needs. Treatment may include:
- Education about pelvic anatomy and bowel mechanics
- Manual therapy to release tight muscles or trigger points
- Guided pelvic floor relaxation or strengthening exercises
- Biofeedback to improve muscle control during bowel movements
- Training on posture, breathing, and toilet habits to reduce strain
Most patients in Chandler attend weekly sessions for a short course of care. Improvement is typically seen within a few visits when paired with good home practices.
Why Advanced Hemorrhoid Centers Refers for PFPT
Many patients come to us for symptoms like:
- Painful bowel movements
- Recurring hemorrhoids
- Anal fissures
- Pressure in the rectum
- Bloating or incomplete emptying
If we determine that pelvic floor dysfunction is part of the issue, we treat any visible problems — such as internal or external hemorrhoids, skin tags, or fissures — and refer you to trusted pelvic floor therapy providers in Chandler. This combined approach delivers the best long-term relief.
Serving Chandler and the East Valley
We proudly care for patients from Chandler, Gilbert, Mesa, Tempe, Scottsdale, Phoenix, Paradise Valley, Fountain Hills, Cave Creek, and Glendale. Our non-surgical, in-office treatments make it easy to start feeling better — and we coordinate closely with therapists to ensure seamless, compassionate care.
FAQs
Will pelvic floor therapy hurt?
No. The process is gentle and guided by your comfort level. Therapists are specially trained in sensitive, respectful care.
Is pelvic floor therapy just for women?
Not at all. Men and women of all ages benefit from PFPT, especially for bowel-related symptoms.
Do I need to treat my hemorrhoids before starting therapy?
If active hemorrhoids, fissures, or thrombosed veins are present, we may recommend in-office treatment first to reduce pain and inflammation.
Call today at (480) 359‑2290 to schedule your consultation!