Frequently Asked Questions

Pelvic Floor Therapy is a specialized form of physical therapy focused on assessing, treating, and restoring optimal function to the pelvic floor muscles. The pelvic floor is a group of muscles that form a supportive hammock-like structure at the base of the pelvis, playing a crucial role in supporting the organs within the abdominal cavity, including the bladder, uterus, and rectum. Pelvic Floor Therapy is designed to address various pelvic health issues, promoting strength, flexibility, and coordination of these muscles.

Our therapist, Kathleen Kangas, DPT, specializes in Pelvic Floor Therapy for women, offering personalized care to address a range of conditions. This includes but is not limited to pelvic pain, incontinence, urinary frequency or urgency, concerns related to structural implications of birthing, painful intercourse, and issues arising from surgical interventions like C-sections, hysterectomies, or episiotomies.

Kathleen’s approach to Pelvic Floor Therapy is holistic, considering the interconnectedness of the pelvic region with the rest of the body. She conducts thorough assessments to identify contributing factors to pelvic issues, providing individualized treatment plans. Techniques may include manual therapy, exercises to strengthen or relax specific muscle groups, and education on lifestyle modifications to support overall pelvic health.

Whether you’re dealing with pelvic pain, post-surgical concerns, or issues related to childbirth, Pelvic Floor Therapy can offer effective and personalized solutions. Kathleen’s 55-minute one-on-one sessions integrate a variety of therapeutic approaches, ensuring a comprehensive and tailored approach to meet each client’s unique needs. If you’re ready to address pelvic health concerns and regain control over your well-being, Pelvic Floor Therapy with Kathleen Kangas may be the right path for you.

Myofascial Release and Pelvic Floor Therapy for Women are comprehensive therapeutic approaches that address a wide range of symptoms and diagnoses. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the specific issues these therapies can effectively target:

1. Chronic Pain (jaw, neck, spine, shoulders, hips, knees, foot pain): Both Myofascial Release and Pelvic Floor Therapy aim to alleviate chronic pain by addressing fascial restrictions and promoting optimal function of the affected muscles and joints.

2. Pelvic Pain: Pelvic Floor Therapy is specifically designed to address pelvic pain, whether it’s due to muscle imbalances, tension, or other factors affecting the pelvic floor muscles.

3. Fibromyalgia: Myofascial Release can be beneficial in managing the symptoms of fibromyalgia by releasing tension and restrictions within the fascial system, leading to reduced pain and improved mobility.

4. Lymphedema: Myofascial Release can help manage lymphedema by promoting better fluid circulation and reducing tissue restrictions that contribute to swelling.

5. Mastectomy or Radiation Scars: Both therapies can address scar tissue concerns, helping to improve mobility, reduce pain, and enhance overall tissue health after mastectomy or radiation treatments.

6. Vulvodynia: Pelvic Floor Therapy can be effective in addressing vulvodynia by addressing muscular imbalances and reducing tension in the pelvic floor muscles.

7. Sacral/Coccyx Pain: Both Myofascial Release and Pelvic Floor Therapy can target sacral and coccyx pain by releasing tension in the associated muscles and improving overall pelvic stability.

8. Painful Fibrotic Breasts: Myofascial Release techniques can be applied to alleviate pain and tension in fibrotic breast tissue, promoting improved comfort and mobility.

9. C-section, Hysterectomy, or Episiotomy Scars: Both therapies can address scar tissue concerns from surgical interventions, promoting tissue health and reducing discomfort.

10. Incontinence, Urinary Frequency, or Urgency: Pelvic Floor Therapy is particularly effective in addressing issues related to bladder control by focusing on the muscles supporting the pelvic organs.

11. Concern about Structural Implications of Birthing: Both therapies can address concerns related to the structural implications of birthing by promoting pelvic floor health and addressing any postpartum musculoskeletal issues.

12. Painful Intercourse: Pelvic Floor Therapy is designed to address the root causes of painful intercourse, including muscular imbalances and tension in the pelvic region.

By combining Myofascial Release and Pelvic Floor Therapy, our personalized approach aims to treat the whole body, addressing the unique needs of each individual to achieve reduced pain, improved function, enhanced strength, flexibility, and overall well-being.

Pelvic Floor Therapy is a specialized form of physical therapy designed to address and treat a variety of women’s health concerns by focusing on the pelvic floor muscles. The pelvic floor muscles play a crucial role in supporting the pelvic organs, maintaining bladder and bowel control, and contributing to sexual function. Here’s how Pelvic Floor Therapy can specifically address women’s health concerns and the conditions it can help alleviate:

1. Pelvic Pain:
– Pelvic Floor Therapy aims to identify and address muscular imbalances or tension in the pelvic floor muscles that may contribute to pelvic pain.

2. Incontinence:
– The therapy focuses on strengthening or relaxing specific pelvic floor muscles to improve bladder and bowel control, addressing both stress and urge incontinence.

3. Pelvic Organ Prolapse:
– Pelvic Floor Therapy can provide exercises and strategies to support pelvic organ positioning and alleviate symptoms associated with prolapse.

4. Painful Intercourse (Dyspareunia):
– By addressing muscular tension, Pelvic Floor Therapy aims to alleviate pain during intercourse and improve overall sexual function.

5. Postpartum Recovery:
– The therapy helps women recover from the physical stress of childbirth by addressing issues such as pelvic floor weakness, pain, and structural concerns.

6. Pelvic Girdle Pain (Symphysis Pubis Dysfunction):
– Pelvic Floor Therapy can offer relief from pain in the pelvic girdle by addressing muscle imbalances and promoting optimal function.

7. Endometriosis and Interstitial Cystitis:
– By addressing pelvic floor dysfunction, the therapy may help manage symptoms associated with conditions like endometriosis and interstitial cystitis.

8. Vulvodynia and Vestibulodynia:
– Pelvic Floor Therapy can be effective in reducing pain associated with vulvodynia and vestibulodynia by addressing tension in the pelvic floor muscles.

9. Coccydynia (Tailbone Pain):
– The therapy can help alleviate tailbone pain by addressing muscular tension and imbalances in the pelvic floor.

10. Pre and Post-Gynecological Surgery:
– Pelvic Floor Therapy can aid in pre-surgical preparation and post-surgical recovery, promoting optimal pelvic health.

11. Chronic Pelvic Pain Syndrome:
– By addressing the muscular and connective tissue components, Pelvic Floor Therapy can provide relief for women experiencing chronic pelvic pain.

12. Menopausal and Hormonal Changes:
– The therapy can address pelvic floor changes related to menopause, helping manage symptoms such as vaginal dryness and discomfort.

Pelvic Floor Therapy, when personalized to an individual’s specific needs, offers a holistic approach to women’s health concerns, promoting optimal pelvic function, and improving overall quality of life. The therapist may use manual techniques, biofeedback, therapeutic exercises, and education to address and alleviate these conditions.

Our approach to Pelvic Floor Therapy is distinct and tailored to address women’s health concerns comprehensively, setting it apart from traditional treatments for pelvic pain and incontinence. Here are key elements that differentiate our approach:

1. Holistic Assessment:
– We conduct a thorough assessment of the entire pelvic region and its connection to the rest of the body, considering the interplay of muscles, joints, and fascial structures. This holistic approach allows us to identify contributing factors to pelvic issues beyond the immediate area.

2. Personalized Treatment Plans:
– Each client receives a personalized treatment plan based on their unique needs and symptoms. We prioritize individualized care to address specific concerns, recognizing that every woman’s experience with pelvic health is unique.

3. Integration of Myofascial Release:
– Our approach integrates Myofascial Release techniques, addressing not only the pelvic floor muscles but also the fascial system. This holistic technique aims to release restrictions in the connective tissue, promoting overall tissue health and function.

4. John F. Barnes Myofascial Release Method:
– We employ the John F. Barnes Myofascial Release approach, a specialized method known for its effectiveness in releasing fascial restrictions. This technique is gentle, and sustained, and aims to address the root causes of pain and dysfunction.

5. Emphasis on Education:
– We prioritize patient education, ensuring that clients understand the factors contributing to their symptoms. This empowers individuals to actively participate in their healing process and make informed decisions about their health.

6. Comprehensive Approach to Incontinence:
– Our therapy goes beyond conventional incontinence treatments by addressing not only muscular strength but also coordination and relaxation of the pelvic floor muscles. This comprehensive approach contributes to improved bladder and bowel control.

7. Postpartum Care and Structural Implications:
– We specialize in addressing postpartum concerns, considering the structural implications of birthing and promoting optimal recovery. Our approach recognizes the importance of addressing changes in pelvic health that may occur during and after childbirth.

8. Integration of Visceral Manipulation:
– In addition to pelvic floor techniques, our therapy may include Visceral Manipulation. This approach focuses on releasing tension and restrictions in the visceral organs, contributing to a more comprehensive and effective treatment plan.

9. Focus on Whole-Body Wellness:
– We view pelvic health as an integral part of overall well-being. Our approach not only targets specific symptoms but also aims to improve overall function, strength, flexibility, and body awareness.

10. Patient-Centered Care:
– Our therapy sessions are one-on-one, allowing for focused attention on each client’s needs. We prioritize open communication, active involvement of the client in their care, and a supportive, empathetic environment.

By combining these elements, our Pelvic Floor Therapy approach provides a unique and effective path to addressing women’s health concerns, offering a holistic and individualized approach that goes beyond traditional treatments.

Yes, Myofascial Release (MFR) and Pelvic Floor Therapy can be highly beneficial for postpartum women dealing with structural concerns or pain. The postpartum period involves significant changes in the body, and these therapies offer effective and holistic approaches to address various issues that may arise during this time. Here’s how Myofascial Release and Pelvic Floor Therapy can benefit postpartum women:

1. Pelvic Floor Rehabilitation:
– Pelvic Floor Therapy is designed to address specific concerns related to the pelvic floor muscles, which may experience strain and trauma during childbirth. It can help in rehabilitating and restoring optimal function to these muscles.

2. Diastasis Recti Management:
– Myofascial Release techniques can be employed to address diastasis recti, a condition where the abdominal muscles separate during pregnancy. These techniques aim to promote healing and improve the integrity of the abdominal wall.

3. C-section Scar Tissue Release:
– Both Myofascial Release and Pelvic Floor Therapy can help release scar tissue from C-sections, promoting better tissue mobility and reducing discomfort.

4. Structural Realignment:
– Myofascial Release focuses on releasing tension and restrictions in the fascial system. This can contribute to overall structural realignment, addressing any imbalances or compensations that may have occurred during pregnancy and childbirth.

5. Pain Management:
– Postpartum women often experience pain, whether from perineal tears, episiotomies, or general discomfort. These therapies can help manage and alleviate pain by addressing musculoskeletal issues and promoting tissue healing.

6. Pelvic Stability and Strength:
– Pelvic Floor Therapy emphasizes exercises and techniques to restore pelvic floor strength and stability, which can be crucial for overall postpartum recovery.

7. Bladder and Bowel Function:
– Pelvic Floor Therapy is effective in addressing issues related to bladder and bowel control that may arise after childbirth, promoting optimal function.

8. Whole-Body Wellness:
– Both therapies take a holistic approach, considering the interconnectedness of the body. This approach not only targets specific postpartum concerns but also contributes to overall well-being, including improved posture, flexibility, and body awareness.

9. Emotional Well-being:
– Postpartum women may experience emotional stress or tension. Myofascial Release, with its focus on releasing physical and emotional tension stored in the fascial system, can contribute to improved emotional well-being.

10. Personalized Care:
– The therapies offer personalized care, considering the unique needs and experiences of each postpartum woman. This ensures that the treatment plan is tailored to address specific concerns and goals.

In summary, Myofascial Release and Pelvic Floor Therapy can play a crucial role in supporting postpartum women, addressing structural concerns, managing pain, and promoting overall recovery and well-being. 

Myofascial Release (MFR) extends beyond pain relief, contributing to overall wellness by addressing the interconnected systems of the body and promoting balance and flexibility. Here are ways in which Myofascial Release contributes to holistic well-being:

1. Improved Range of Motion:
– MFR techniques aim to release restrictions in the fascial system, enhancing flexibility and restoring a natural range of motion. This increased mobility positively impacts overall physical function.

2. Enhanced Body Awareness:
– Through MFR, individuals develop heightened awareness of their body and its movements. This increased body awareness can lead to better posture, improved movement patterns, and a more conscious connection with one’s physical self.

3. Stress Reduction:
– The fascia is sensitive to stress and emotional tension. MFR not only addresses physical restrictions but also releases emotional tension stored in the fascial system. This can contribute to overall stress reduction and improved mental well-being.

4. Optimized Posture:
– By releasing fascial restrictions that may contribute to poor posture, MFR helps individuals achieve a more aligned and balanced body position. Improved posture positively affects musculoskeletal health and can reduce the risk of future discomfort.

5. Enhanced Circulation and Fluid Dynamics:
– MFR promotes optimal fluid flow within the fascial system, which includes blood and lymphatic circulation. This can positively impact the delivery of nutrients to tissues, the removal of waste products, and overall cellular health.

6. Support for the Nervous System:
– The fascia plays a role in transmitting signals from the nervous system. MFR can support the nervous system by releasing tension, potentially leading to improved neurological function and reduced nerve-related symptoms.

7. Release of Chronic Tension:
– Chronic tension held in the fascial system due to physical or emotional trauma can be released through MFR. This not only contributes to physical comfort but also aids in mental and emotional relaxation.

8. Improved Respiratory Function:
– MFR can address restrictions in the fascia around the ribcage and diaphragm, supporting optimal respiratory function. This can enhance breathing patterns and oxygenation of tissues.

9. Balance in the Fascial System:
– MFR seeks to restore balance in the fascial system, which has a widespread impact on the body’s biomechanics. This balance contributes to improved coordination, stability, and overall functional movement.

10. Prevention of Future Issues:
– By addressing fascial restrictions and imbalances, MFR can help prevent the development of future musculoskeletal issues. It promotes proactive wellness by maintaining tissue health and resilience.

11. Holistic Approach to Health:
– MFR acknowledges the holistic nature of the body-mind connection. By promoting balance in the fascial system, it aligns with a holistic approach to health that considers physical, emotional, and mental well-being.

12. Quality of Sleep:
– Improved relaxation and reduced physical tension through MFR may positively impact sleep quality, contributing to better overall health and vitality.

In essence, Myofascial Release goes beyond symptom-focused care, fostering a holistic approach to well-being that addresses physical, emotional, and mental aspects of health. It promotes a state of balance, flexibility, and overall vitality.

Personalized care is at the core of our approach to Myofascial Release (MFR) and Pelvic Floor Therapy. We understand that every individual is unique, and their experience with pain, discomfort, or pelvic health concerns is influenced by various factors. Here’s how personalized care plays a crucial role in our therapeutic approach:

1. Individualized Assessment:
– Each client undergoes a comprehensive and individualized assessment. This involves understanding the client’s medical history, lifestyle, specific symptoms, and personal goals. This tailored assessment guides the development of a customized treatment plan.

2. Unique Treatment Plans:
– Based on the assessment, we create personalized treatment plans that address the specific needs and goals of each client. Treatment is not a one-size-fits-all approach; it is adapted to the individual’s condition, preferences, and pace of progress.

3. Targeting Root Causes:
– Our focus is on identifying and addressing the root causes of pain, dysfunction, or pelvic health issues. By tailoring interventions to individual circumstances, we can create more effective and sustainable outcomes.

4. Holistic Consideration:
– We take a holistic approach, considering the interconnectedness of the body systems. This involves looking beyond the immediate symptoms and addressing contributing factors that may involve lifestyle, movement patterns, and emotional well-being.

5. Client Collaboration:
– We actively involve clients in their care, fostering collaboration and open communication. Clients are encouraged to share their experiences, concerns, and preferences, ensuring that the therapy aligns with their comfort level and expectations.

6. Adaptability to Progress:
– As clients progress through therapy, their personalized care plans are adapted accordingly. This adaptability ensures that the treatment remains effective and continues to meet the evolving needs of the individual.

7. Respect for Comfort Levels:
– We recognize that comfort levels and preferences vary among individuals. Personalized care means respecting these differences, creating a supportive and comfortable environment for each client throughout their therapeutic journey.

8. Education and Empowerment:
– Personalized care involves educating clients about their condition, contributing factors, and self-care strategies. This empowers individuals to actively participate in their healing process, make informed decisions, and integrate positive habits into their daily lives.

9. Emphasis on Long-Term Wellness:
– Our approach extends beyond short-term symptom relief. Personalized care includes a focus on long-term wellness, providing individuals with tools and knowledge to maintain and promote their health beyond the duration of therapy.

10. Flexibility in Techniques:
– Different individuals respond uniquely to therapeutic techniques. Personalized care allows us to be flexible in selecting and adapting Myofascial Release and Pelvic Floor Therapy techniques based on the individual’s response and preferences.

11. Mind-Body Connection:
– Recognizing the mind-body connection, we consider emotional and psychological factors that may impact physical well-being. Personalized care takes into account the broader aspects of an individual’s health.

In summary, personalized care is not just a consideration but a guiding principle in our Myofascial Release and Pelvic Floor Therapy approach. It ensures that each client receives a tailored and comprehensive therapeutic experience, promoting optimal outcomes and a positive therapeutic journey.

The John F. Barnes Myofascial Release (MFR) approach holds significant importance in the field of manual therapy, particularly in the context of addressing fascial restrictions and promoting holistic healing. Here are key aspects that highlight the significance of the John F. Barnes Myofascial Release approach and differentiate it from other MFR methods:

1. Holistic Philosophy:
– The Barnes approach embraces a holistic philosophy that views the body as a unit, acknowledging the interconnectivity of physical, emotional, and energetic aspects. It recognizes that restrictions in the fascial system may have far-reaching effects beyond localized symptoms.

2. Whole-Body Focus:
– Unlike some more localized or symptom-specific approaches, the Barnes method emphasizes treating the entire body. It involves an assessment of the entire fascial system to identify and address restrictions that may contribute to various symptoms.

3. Gentle and Sustained Pressure:
– The Barnes approach employs gentle and sustained pressure on fascial restrictions. This contrasts with more forceful or aggressive techniques used in some other methods. The intention is to engage the fascial system without triggering a defensive response from the body.

4. Long-Term Effects:
– Barnes Myofascial Release is designed to create lasting and comprehensive changes. The focus is not solely on symptom relief but on addressing the root causes of restrictions, providing a foundation for long-term healing and improved function.

5. Release of Emotional Holding:
– Recognizing the connection between fascia and emotions, the Barnes approach incorporates the release of emotional holding patterns stored in the fascial system. This holistic perspective acknowledges the impact of emotions on physical well-being.

6. Mind-Body Integration:
– The method emphasizes the integration of mind and body in the healing process. By addressing both the physical and emotional components, it aligns with the understanding that mental and emotional states can influence physical health.

7. Patient Involvement:
– Patients are actively involved in the therapeutic process in the Barnes approach. This includes fostering awareness of sensations and emotions during treatment, promoting a collaborative relationship between the therapist and the individual seeking care.

8. Individualized Treatment:
– Each person’s experience with Myofascial Release is unique, and the Barnes approach tailors treatment to the individual’s specific needs. This individualization ensures that the therapy is adapted to the client’s unique circumstances and responses.

9. Extensive Training:
– Therapists practicing the Barnes approach undergo extensive training through the John F. Barnes Myofascial Release seminars. This ensures a high level of proficiency and understanding of the nuanced techniques and philosophy associated with this method.

10. Focus on Fascial Unwinding:
– The Barnes approach places emphasis on facilitating fascial unwinding, allowing the tissue to release and return to a more natural and relaxed state. This unwinding process can contribute to the resolution of physical and emotional patterns stored in the fascia.

11. Integration of Other Modalities:
– While centered on Myofascial Release, therapists trained in the Barnes approach may integrate other modalities, such as Visceral Manipulation and Craniosacral Therapy, to enhance the overall therapeutic effect.

In summary, the significance of the John F. Barnes Myofascial Release approach lies in its holistic philosophy, whole-body focus, gentle techniques, emphasis on long-term effects, and integration of emotional and physical well-being. Therapists trained in this approach aim to create a comprehensive and individualized healing experience for their clients.