Eileen Kishman is a Physical Therapist at Advent Physical Therapy – providing quality care since 1996. Advent is one of the of the largest and most comprehensive rehabilitation providers in West Michigan, with 14 convenient locations 7 of which offer pelvic services.

Eileen studied physical therapy at the University of Michigan – Flint with over 34 years of experience. She is a prenatal exercise instructor in her free time and enjoys running, watching her daughter swim, and coaching.

Eileen believes the key to health is empowering women through education and collaboration. Female health is her passion, and she has learned that there are some stigmas that exist:

Did you know:

• 1 out of 3 lose control over their bladder.

• 1 out of 5 have pain during intercourse.

• 1 out of 5 have pelvic pain that could be related to spine, abdomen, and pelvic floor issues.

• Pregnancy and postpartum pain and weakness are common but can be treated.

What can a Pelvic Health Physical Therapist help with?

• Pregnancy and Postpartum Conditions – Pain and weakness can be addressed during pregnancy and immediately following birth.

• Constipation – Pelvic and abdominal muscles can be strengthened or relaxed to assist with constipation.

• Endometriosis – Bones, ligaments, muscles, and nerves in the pelvic region can all be affected by the progression of endometriosis. We can help lessen pain and bloating while strengthening pelvic floor muscles.

• Urinary Urgency or Leakage - Therapists can help coordinate strengthening and relaxation of your pelvic floor along with behavioral changes to assist with urge and leakage symptoms.

• Pain after Abdominal Surgery – We can reduce pain after surgeries. Treatment can help break up scar tissue, regain range of motion, and improve strength.

• Relieving or eliminating painful intercourse and infertility concerns. 

What is Pelvic Rehabilitation?

Pelvic rehabilitation involves lengthening and strengthening the pelvic floor, hip, and abdominal muscles that are causing pain or leakage affecting your daily life. We will provide an evaluation to determine what specific type of treatment you will need. 

We use a combination of exercise, manual therapy and relaxation techniques. We may also incorporate technological treatments such as biofeedback and electric stimulation. You might have a home program with a list of therapeutic exercises to follow to aid in the speed of your recovery. We also support proactive and preventative treatments in preparation for childbirth- making delivery and recovery easier.

What Techniques are Used?

There are several non-invasive techniques a pelvic health physical therapist may use during a session, things like:

Postural Exercises – To improve posture and muscles affecting posture using large therapy balls or medicine balls in an exercise routine.

Stretching/Strengthening – Exercises targeting the pelvic floor muscles and the connecting fascia as well as stretches, massages, and bouts of light exercise as a part of the treatment plan.

Diaphragmatic Breathing – Deep breathing exercises can help relax muscles in the pelvic area. Deep breaths allow your diaphragm to slowly contract and expand. This, in turn, causes muscles in the pelvic floor to drop and lengthen.

Relaxation Techniques –Guided imagery and biofeedback can help you relax, making it easier for your physical therapist to provide manual therapy and stretch your muscles.

Getting Treatment

Our team can help you find relief from pelvic conditions and assist you with treatments to reduce pain, lessen symptoms, and heal – achieving the results you deserve.

Your pelvic floor muscles, tendons, and ligaments are extremely important in supporting the core of your body. Contact us today for more information on how pelvic floor rehab can work for you.