Connecting with local pelvic floor therapists are some of my favorite providers to refer our clients to. I feel like so often as new parents, we either hear horror stories of our new life or “if only I had known…”, and pelvic floor therapists can really help correct those two statements! I remember at my baby shower, my sister in law told, “Oh prepare to never be able to laugh without peeing a little after birthing a Chaffee head.” And yes, my husband’s family has giant-headed babies, so part of that statement is true. But, living with laughing and peeing at the same time is not a expectation, is not normal, and not something we should just live with!
Hannah Kirkman at Back In Action is an amazing pelvic floor therapist located in Apex.
Not only does she have a keen understand of the pelvic floor and how to properly treat any ailment, she is a mother and understands the reality of being a parent! She is going to help you make a plan that works for you, and a plan that you will actually do! And best part: her practice accepts most major insurance carries!
Now the fun part! Let’s get to know Hannah.
What made you interested in becoming a pelvic floor physical therapist?
I started physical therapy school with an interest in pelvic floor PT, but it wasn't until my own pregnancy that I pursued the specialization. It is such a special niche in the physical therapy world! Having been through some challenges associated with pregnancy, I empathize with patient concerns and am even more motivated to help them achieve their goals.
So often we hear our postpartum clients say "No one told me", or "I wish I would have known". How can seeing a pelvic floor therapist help with some one of those unknowns?
A pelvic health PT is your ally! Whatever kind of birth experience you want, we are there to give you information and help prepare your body for that experience. One helpful practice that I implement is discussion of anatomy in relation to birth positions. Understanding the anatomy and movement of the pelvic floor empowers people who are pregnant to choose the birth position and practice that is best for them.
What does a typical session with you look like?
During my first session with a patient, we will first go over general history and primary complaints. Then I will perform an assessment where I evaluate functional movement, alignment, range of motion, and strength. Based on these findings and current complaints, I may start with manual therapy to decrease pain. I will also introduce exercises based on deficits found in the assessment, providing corrections and modifications. There is always lots of education in my sessions! From breastfeeding positions to types of lubricant for intercourse, I am always giving intel for patients to utilize outside of the clinic. If a patient has a pelvic floor concern/issue, I will likely perform an internal pelvic floor muscle assessment and prescribe exercises appropriately.
At what point postpartum should someone come see you for pelvic floor therapy?
Typically, patients come to pelvic floor PT after 6 weeks postpartum. At that time, most patients are cleared by their provider for internal pelvic floor muscle assessment and treatment. However, I have had patients come to me sooner than 6 weeks if they are experiencing severe hip or back pain and need help sooner! If that's the case, I will do external/traditional orthopedic care until we are cleared for internal treatment (if appropriate).
When you are not working with patients, where can we find you?
When I'm not working, you can find me in my garden, chasing my toddler, or walking my sweet pup. My husband and I love hiking and camping, so in cooler months we like to camp for a night or two (between us, I'm the outdoorsy one, he follows my lead).
