Do you find yourself mapping out the nearest bathroom whenever you go out? Do you avoid a hearty laugh, a brisk jump, or your favorite high-impact exercise class for fear of an embarrassing leak? Perhaps a deep, persistent ache in your pelvis, lower back, or tailbone has become your unwelcome companion, making daily life—and intimacy—a source of pain rather than pleasure.
If this sounds familiar, please know two things: you are not alone, and this is not your new normal. At Rebecca’s Physical Therapy in Mount Pleasant, SC, we understand the isolation and frustration that can come with these deeply personal health challenges. Our clinic is built on a foundation of specialized, evidence-based physical therapy dedicated exclusively to women’s health. We are here to guide you toward real, lasting solutions that go far beyond temporary fixes, empowering you to reclaim comfort, control, and confidence in your body.
The Specialized Focus of Rebecca’s Physical Therapy: Beyond General Care
While general physical therapy is excellent for a sprained ankle or a sore shoulder, the complex and intimate nature of pelvic health requires a specific, nuanced skillset. Our practice is fundamentally different because it is our sole focus. We move beyond a one-size-fits-all approach, offering a whole-person perspective that addresses the root cause of your discomfort, not just the symptoms. Using the latest evidence-based techniques, we create a collaborative, respectful environment where your goals become our roadmap for recovery.
Addressing Pelvic Floor Dysfunction and Chronic Pain
The term “pelvic floor dysfunction” encompasses a wide range of issues, but it essentially means the muscles, ligaments, and connective tissue in your pelvis are not functioning optimally. They might be too tight, weak, or uncoordinated. This can manifest as:
- Chronic pelvic pain or pressure
- Pain during or after intercourse
- Tailbone pain (coccydynia)
- A feeling of heaviness or bulging in the vaginal area
A common misconception is that you must simply endure this pain. In reality, physical therapy is a highly successful, first-line treatment. Your journey begins with a comprehensive assessment where we listen to your history and, with your full consent, may perform an external and internal evaluation to assess muscle function, tone, and coordination. This isn’t about causing more pain; it’s about gathering the crucial information needed to build your personalized path to relief.
Effective, Non-Surgical Solutions for Urinary Incontinence
That sudden leak when you cough, sneeze, or run for the door is known as stress incontinence. The overwhelming, urgent need to go, even when your bladder isn’t full, is urge incontinence. Many women experience a mix of both. Whatever the type, urinary leakage is a physical issue with a physical solution—and surgery is rarely the only option.
Physical therapy for incontinence focuses on retraining your pelvic floor. It’s not just about “Kegels.” In fact, for some women, their muscles are already too tight, and strengthening would be counterproductive. We teach you how to properly coordinate and strengthen these deep core muscles, integrate them into functional movements, and often incorporate bladder retraining techniques. The result is a personalized program that empowers you to regain control and live your life without constant anxiety.
Supporting Women Through Pregnancy and Postpartum Recovery
Pregnancy and childbirth are miraculous, but they are also physically demanding events that can leave your body feeling unfamiliar. From the aches and pains of carrying your baby to the profound changes of delivery and recovery, your body deserves expert, compassionate support. We position ourselves as your partner in this journey, providing the safe, effective guidance you need to navigate both prenatal discomfort and postpartum healing.
Managing Prenatal Pain and Discomfort
As your body adapts to accommodate your growing baby, it’s common to experience new pains. Sciatica during pregnancy, for example, can cause sharp, shooting pain down your leg due to pressure on the sciatic nerve. You might also deal with pubic bone pain (symphysis pubis dysfunction), round ligament pain, or general low back and hip ache.
Prenatal physical therapy at our clinic is designed to be safe and effective for both you and your baby. We use manual therapy to ease joint and muscle tension, prescribe safe exercises to stabilize and support your changing body, and even provide guidance on optimal positioning for labor. Our goal is to alleviate your pain now and help prepare your body for a stronger, more comfortable birth experience.
Reclaiming Your Body: Postpartum and Diastasis Recti Care
The postpartum period is about so much more than just “bouncing back.” It’s a critical time for healing and re-establishing a strong foundation. Many women are unaware that a structured return to activity is essential for addressing common postpartum issues like lingering back pain, hip pain, and Diastasis Recti Abdominis (DRA)—the separation of the abdominal muscles.
We specialize in expert physical therapy for postpartum issues in SC. We assess your core, including checking for and measuring DRA, and then guide you through a progressive program to safely close the gap and restore functional strength. This isn’t about crunches; it’s about reconnecting with your deep core system so you can confidently lift your child, return to exercise, and feel strong again.
Why Choose Rebecca’s Physical Therapy in Mount Pleasant, SC?
In a world of general healthcare, finding a true specialist close to home matters. As a dedicated Mount Pleasant SC physical therapy clinic for women’s health, we offer a sanctuary of expertise and understanding right in your community. Our specialized training means we speak your language and understand the sensitive nature of the conditions we treat. We prioritize your comfort and privacy above all else, ensuring you feel heard, respected, and empowered from the moment you walk through our door.
What to Expect at Your First Appointment
We know that seeking help for these issues can feel daunting. So, what should you expect during your first visit to a women’s health physical therapist?
Your initial appointment is a 60-90 minute, one-on-one conversation and physical assessment with your dedicated therapist. It’s a time for us to listen deeply to your story, your symptoms, and your goals. We will discuss your medical history in a private room and then, with your explicit consent, proceed to the physical exam. This may include an assessment of your posture, movement patterns, and, if relevant to your goals, an internal pelvic floor muscle assessment. It is always your choice, and you can stop at any time. By the end of this session, we will have a clear understanding of your unique situation and will outline a clear, collaborative plan for your treatment.
Conclusion:
Pelvic pain, urinary incontinence, and the physical challenges of pregnancy and postpartum are incredibly common, but they are not a life sentence. They are treatable conditions, and seeking specialized care is the most powerful step you can take toward a better quality of life. At Rebecca’s Physical Therapy, we have the expertise, the empathy, and the evidence-based approach to help you find lasting relief.
Stop managing your symptoms and start solving them. Take that first step toward a life free from pain and worry.