An integrative and practical resource for physical therapists and patients to improve pelvic
floor dysfunction symptoms It is estimated that the incidence of women with at least one pelvic
floor disorder will nearly double from 28.1 million to 43.8 million by the year 2050.
Incontinence affects one in three women between the ages of 15 to 65 between one and three out
of 10 men in the same age range and an estimated 14% of adolescents under age 15. Pelvic floor
dysfunction incontinence weakness imbalance or excessive tightness can cause debilitating
symptoms in men and women that can significantly impact quality of life. Fitness for the Pelvic
Floor Second Edition builds on the popular prior edition by internationally acclaimed
physiotherapist Beate Carrière with new clinical applications and contributions from coauthor
Dawn-Marie Ickes on topics physical therapy students need to learn. The book starts with a
section on anatomy and physiology of the pelvic floor with discussion of breathing muscles
tone differences incontinence and medications and nutrition. The second part features seven
chapters detailing effective treatment options and exercises. Straightforward simple exercises
and heightened sensory awareness tips described in the text and presented in videos have proven
to be the most efficacious treatment methods for many patients. Therapists will learn how to
evaluate pelvic floor problems and develop and teach patients appropriate treatment strategies
for specific situations such as incontinence dysfunctions after childbirth and post-prostate
surgery issues. Key Highlights Anatomical and physiological content and clear explanations of
the correlation between breathing the pelvic floor and abdominal muscles enhance knowledge
Easy-to-follow exercise routines focus on activating and relaxing pelvic floor muscles
Definitions of essenti