Insights on Physical Therapy and Pelvic Floor Therapy with Henamari Ybay, DPT, PT.
Imagine a life free from the discomfort of urinary incontinence, pelvic pain, or sexual dysfunction—conditions that can significantly affect your daily life and sense of well-being. Pelvic floor therapy offers a path to relief and recovery, empowering individuals to regain control over their bodies. To explore this important topic further, we sat down with Henamari Ybay, DPT, PT, a physical therapist at Think Whole Person Healthcare, who specializes in orthopedics, women’s health, chronic pain, and pelvic floor therapy. Through her expertise, Henamari helps patients overcome these challenges, guiding them toward a healthier, more comfortable life.
The Role of Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy
Interview with Henamari Ybay, DPT, PT
Interviewer: Can you tell us a little bit about yourself and your background in physical therapy?
Hena Ybay: My name is Henamari Ybay, and I’m a physical therapist at think. I specialize in orthopedics, women’s health, chronic pain, and manual therapy. I graduated from the University of Nebraska Medical Center with a degree in Physical Therapy and furthered my training through an Orthopedic Residency.
Interviewer: What inspired you to pursue a career in physical therapy, especially in the areas of orthopedics and women’s health?
Hena Ybay: I’m passionate about helping people achieve their optimal health and well-being. Seeing patients go from feeling limited on day one to getting them to their goals is incredibly rewarding. Orthopedics and women’s health are areas where I can make a significant impact by addressing specific needs and improving their quality of life. And I love designing my programs based on each patient’s unique needs, specifically because no two patients are going to be the same.
Interviewer: What is your approach to physical therapy?
Hena Ybay: I believe in treating the whole person, not just the condition. I tailor my treatment plans to each patient’s individual needs and goals. At think, we create a welcoming and supportive environment where patients feel comfortable and empowered to participate very actively in their recovery.
Interviewer: What are some of the conditions you treat?
Hena Ybay: I specialize in treating a variety of conditions, including orthopedic injuries like sprains, strains, fractures, and arthritis. I also work with women’s health issues, such as pregnancy-related problems, postpartum recovery, and pelvic floor dysfunction. Additionally, I have experience managing chronic pain conditions, including back pain, neck pain, headaches, and fibromyalgia. I utilize manual therapy techniques to improve mobility and reduce pain.
Interviewer: What can you tell us about your work with pelvic floor physical therapy?
Hena Ybay: Pelvic floor physical therapy is a specialized area that focuses on the muscles and tissues surrounding the pelvic area. I assess and treat conditions such as urinary incontinence, pelvic pain, and sexual dysfunction. I believe in a holistic approach that includes education, exercises, and manual therapy to help patients regain control of their pelvic floor function.
Pelvic floor therapy deals with every part of the body within the pelvic region, from the lumbar spine to the pelvic organs and muscles. I specialize in diagnosing conditions involving these muscles and providing targeted musculoskeletal training. It’s like training any other body part, but with a specific focus on the pelvic region.
By understanding the pelvic floor’s role in overall health and well-being, we can address a wide range of issues and improve patients’ quality of life.
Interviewer: Who is typically coming to you for pelvic floor physical therapy and why?
Hena Ybay: Pelvic floor physical therapy, often referred to as women’s health physical therapy, is sought by individuals experiencing urinary incontinence, pelvic pain, or sexual dysfunction. Many of my patients are women who have been pregnant or postpartum, as these experiences can significantly impact pelvic floor health. Men also can receive pelvic floor therapy.
I often see patients who are struggling with incontinence, which can lead to anxiety and limit their daily activities. Some patients may be afraid of wetting themselves or not being able to get to the bathroom on time. By accurately diagnosing the underlying issue and providing targeted training, I help patients regain control of their symptoms, which can significantly improve their quality of life.
Pelvic floor issues can arise from all kinds of causes. For instance, trauma to the area is common, especially if a woman has given birth and experienced tearing, which is very common after natural childbirth. Such tears or any kind of muscle strain can lead to pain. Post-pregnancy, many women notice increased urinary incontinence, which we often address in therapy.
Another cause of urinary incontinence could be abnormal bladder habits. For some people, the habit of urinating before leaving the house can create a strong association in the brain, leading to urgency even when the bladder isn’t full. I also see patients with difficulty controlling their bladder due to these habits.
Other causes include neurological issues, such as those faced by individuals post-stroke or after a spinal cord injury, where nerve damage affects bladder control. Additionally, conditions like constipation can affect bladder function because the intestines are neighbors to the bladder, and any pressure from the intestines can cause increased frequency of urination. There really are so many different causes, and it can be a big puzzle to figure out specifically what is going on.
Interviewer: What are some of the benefits of pelvic floor physical therapy?
Hena Ybay: Pelvic floor physical therapy can offer numerous benefits. It can help improve bladder control, manage pelvic pain, enhance sexual function, and strengthen the pelvic floor muscles.
Interviewer: What can patients expect during a pelvic floor physical therapy session?
Hena Ybay: During a pelvic floor physical therapy session, patients can expect a comprehensive evaluation to assess the strength, flexibility, and coordination of their pelvic floor muscles. We will also provide education on the pelvic floor anatomy, function, and common conditions. The session may include exercises to strengthen, relax, stretch, or coordinate the pelvic floor muscles, as well as manual therapy techniques like internal release or massage to address muscle tension or trigger points. The duration of therapy sessions can vary depending on the severity of the patient’s condition.
For the initial session, we typically spend about an hour and 15 minutes to thoroughly evaluate the patient’s condition. This first appointment is crucial for understanding what specifically needs to be addressed. During this time, we’ll discuss any referral from your physician and go over your health history and symptoms. Follow-up appointments are generally about 45 minutes long, where we continue with the treatment plan tailored to your needs. It all starts with letting your doctor know that you’re interested in pelvic floor physical therapy, and they can provide a referral, just like they would for therapy related to your back or shoulder.
Interviewer: What are some common misconceptions about pelvic floor physical therapy?
Hena Ybay: One common misconception is that pelvic floor physical therapy is only for women. In reality, pelvic floor dysfunction can affect both men and women. Another misconception is that pelvic floor physical therapy is uncomfortable or embarrassing. I strive to create a safe and comfortable environment where patients feel at ease discussing their concerns.
Another is that kegels can fix everything. Yes, they are one of the tools in the toolbox and a lot of people are familiar with them, but they are not always the best solution and at times not the right solution at all. A pelvic floor physical therapist can really assess your specific needs and provide personalized exercises and techniques that properly and fully address your concerns.
Interviewer: How long does it typically take to see results from pelvic floor physical therapy?
Hena Ybay: The duration of therapy sessions varies depending on the severity of the patient’s condition. In some cases, patients may see significant improvement within a month, while others may require several months of therapy. For instance, patients with mild urinary incontinence may see results more quickly, while those with more complex conditions may require a longer course of treatment.
Interviewer: Is pelvic floor physical therapy covered by insurance?
Hena Ybay: Most insurance plans cover pelvic floor physical therapy when it is prescribed by a healthcare provider. However, it’s always best to check with your insurance provider to confirm coverage.
Interviewer: How does pelvic floor physical therapy fit into a whole-person healthcare model?
Hena Ybay: As a pelvic floor physical therapist, I see the pelvic floor as an integral part of the body, just as important as the head, neck, and back. Whole person care recognizes that every part of the body is connected and can contribute to overall functioning. Pelvic floor physical therapy is a crucial component of this approach, addressing an often-overlooked area of the body that can significantly impact a person’s quality of life.
I like to treat my patients as individuals, considering their entire health history and lifestyle. Think‘s approach perfectly aligns with this philosophy. By offering a wide range of services like mental health, physical therapy, and pharmacy, among many others, think empowers healthcare providers to look at the patient as a whole and address all their needs. This comprehensive approach is what makes it truly special to practice here.
Understanding Pelvic Floor Dysfunction
The pelvic floor is a complex group of 26 muscles that form a supportive structure for the pelvic organs and play a critical role in stabilizing the pelvis and spine. These muscles are essential for sexual function, bowel and bladder control, and overall pelvic health. When the pelvic floor muscles become weak, stretched, or overly tight, it can lead to a condition known as pelvic floor dysfunction (PFD).
PFD can manifest in a variety of symptoms, including urinary incontinence, pelvic pain, urinary urgency, fecal incontinence, and sexual dysfunction. This condition can be triggered by several factors, such as pregnancy, childbirth, menopause, chronic conditions like diabetes or arthritis, surgery, and even nerve damage.
What Should You Do if You Suspect You Have Pelvic Floor Dysfunction?
Many people mistakenly believe that symptoms like urinary leakage or pelvic pain are just a normal part of aging or life changes. However, it’s crucial to recognize that these issues are not just inevitable inconveniences—they are signs that your pelvic floor may need attention. Addressing these symptoms early with the help of a healthcare provider can make a significant difference in your quality of life.
If you’re experiencing symptoms of pelvic floor dysfunction, it’s important to talk to your primary care provider. They can help assess your condition and refer you to a pelvic floor physical therapist for further evaluation and personalized treatment. Early intervention can lead to better outcomes and a quicker return to normalcy.
CONSIDER THINK YOUR PARTNER IN PELVIC FLOOR HEALTH.
At think, our team of experienced pelvic floor physical therapists is dedicated to helping you regain control of your pelvic floor function. We offer comprehensive evaluations, personalized treatment plans, and a supportive environment to help you achieve your goals.
Remember, pelvic floor dysfunction doesn’t have to control your life. With the right treatment, you can regain your confidence and improve your overall well-being.
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Our dedicated team is here to support your health. To schedule an appointment, call us at 402.506.9049.