FAQs
I AM SO GLAD YOU ASKED!
WHAT IS A PELVIC FLOOR PHYSICAL THERAPIST?
Pelvic floor physical therapy is a post-doctoral specialization of physical therapy that addresses issues that arise within the pelvic floor musculature and pelvic region of the body. These issues often lead to bladder, bowel and sexual dysfunction as well as other orthopedic conditions including, but not limited to low back, hip and abdominal pain. Because this is a complex part of the body and the pelvic floor muscles are influenced by the majority of the other parts of the body, a pelvic floor therapist is trained to evaluate and treat in a holistic way that addresses the whole person.
HOW DO YOU DIFFER FROM OTHER PELVIC FLOOR PHYSICAL THERAPISTS?
Dr. Stockham-Baller is uniquely qualified and has extensive experience in both pelvic health and orthopedics. Routinely, pelvic floor physical therapists are narrowly trained in pelvic muscle rehabilitation, but Dr. Stockham-Baller has years of experience treating patients with orthopedic and sports injuries. She considers the whole body in her assessment of the pelvic floor muscles.
WHAT DO YOUR CREDENTIALS AS A PELVIC REHABILITATION PRACTITIONER CERTIFICATION (PRPC) MEAN?
PRPC specifically identifies the bearer as a specialist in the pelvic health field, that covers pelvic health throughout the life cycle. This certification is awarded to therapists who successfully apply to sit for the exam and receive a passing score on the computer-administered multiple-choice examination. It requires the applicant to apply and sit for the examination every ten years to maintain the professional credentials.
Professional Certification is the voluntary process by which a non-governmental entity grants a time-limited recognition to an individual after verifying that he or she has met predetermined and standardized criteria. It is the vehicle a profession uses to differentiate among its members.
IF I’M HAVING PELVIC FLOOR ISSUES, CAN I JUST DO A BUNCH OF KEGELS?
Unfortunately, no. It is rare that doing Kegel’s alone will cure your condition.
WHAT SHOULD I EXPECT ON MY FIRST VISIT?
Your visit will begin with an interview and discussion about why you are pursuing physical therapy and what your goals and expectations are. You should be ready to answer questions regarding your health history, bathroom habits and exercise, diet and daily routines.
Next, a postural and musculoskeletal assessment will be performed. We will then determine if an internal pelvic floor muscle assessment is necessary. We will thoroughly explain, step-by-step, what you should expect and provide visuals of the exact musculature we will be assessing. We will ask for your consent prior to any portion of this examination and you have the right to change your mind at anytime.
After our thorough assessment, we will collaborate to develop an individualized and specific treatment plan best suited for you.
Is an internal exam required?
Absolutely not! The internal pelvic floor muscle assessment is the best way to truly assess your pelvic anatomy and get a reliable baseline for your strength, control and impairments. However, if you are uncomfortable, you have every right to refuse this part of the assessment. If this is the case, we will still be able to develop an appropriate plan of care with all of the other information gathered. It is possible that progress may be slow or limited due to missing this last component of information, but there are several situations where we can still optimize your outcomes without an internal pelvic floor muscle assessment.
Can YOU ACCEPT HSA/FSA FOR PAYMENT?
Yes, we accept Health Savings Account (HSA) and Flexible Spending Account (FSA) as payment. Your insurance may require a receipt and/or superbill, which is provided for you.