When most people hear “pelvic floor therapy,” they think of adults. But did you know that children can also benefit from pelvic floor physical therapy? Pediatric pelvic floor therapy is a specialized approach that helps kids who struggle with bladder, bowel, and core muscle issues, empowering them to feel comfortable and confident in their daily lives.
What is the Pelvic Floor?
The pelvic floor is a group of muscles that support the bladder, bowels, and, in girls, the uterus. These muscles help:
-
Control urination and bowel movements
-
Support posture and core strength
-
Assist with overall coordination and physical activity
When these muscles aren’t working properly, kids may experience challenges like:
-
Bedwetting or daytime accidents
-
Constipation or painful bowel movements
-
Urgency or frequent bathroom trips
-
Difficulty sitting, running, or participating in sports
How Pediatric Pelvic Floor Therapy Helps
Pediatric pelvic floor physical therapists are specially trained to work with children using fun, age-appropriate methods. Therapy focuses on:
-
Assessing Muscle Function: Evaluating muscle strength, coordination, and tone to identify areas that need support.
-
Teaching Muscle Control: Helping children learn to contract and relax their pelvic floor muscles through engaging exercises and games.
-
Improving Bladder and Bowel Habits: Teaching proper toileting techniques, timed voiding, and strategies to reduce accidents.
-
Strengthening Core and Posture: Building overall stability to support movement, balance, and daily activities.
-
Using Play and Movement: Incorporating fun activities to keep kids engaged while developing essential skills.
Signs Your Child Might Benefit
Parents often notice that their child:
-
Struggles with potty training or has frequent accidents
-
Experiences constipation or painful bowel movements
-
Complains of discomfort while sitting or during physical activity
-
Needs help with body awareness or core stability
Why Early Intervention Matters
Early intervention can prevent long-term struggles, boost self-confidence, and help children participate fully in school, sports, and social activities. Pediatric pelvic floor therapy is personalized, supportive, and tailored to each child’s unique needs.
Getting Started
A pediatric pelvic floor physical therapist can evaluate your child and design a fun, effective plan to strengthen muscles, improve bladder and bowel control, and promote independence. Therapy sessions often incorporate games, exercises, and activities that make learning these skills engaging for kids.
Pediatric pelvic floor therapy isn’t just about muscles—it’s about helping kids gain control, comfort, and confidence in their daily lives. If your child is struggling with bladder, bowel, or core challenges, a pediatric pelvic floor physical therapist can help guide them toward success.