A cancer diagnosis changes everything. Whether you've experienced breast cancer, undergone a hysterectomy, or received treatment for other gynecologic cancers, your body has been through an incredible journey. While medical treatments save lives, they can also leave lasting effects on your body that impact daily comfort and function. That's where specialized pelvic floor physical therapy can make a remarkable difference in your recovery and quality of life. Pelvic floor therapy is your comprehensive, alternative, and holistic treatment to guide you through all the things your body is now dealing with during and after your journey with any cancer.
Understanding the Hidden Impacts of Cancer Treatment
Cancer treatments affect our bodies in ways that aren't always visible or discussed openly in medical appointments. Many women find themselves experiencing unexpected changes months or even years after treatment, wondering if what they're feeling is normal. Let's talk about some of the common changes women experience following treatment.
Physical Changes After Surgery
Surgery for breast cancer, hysterectomy, or other pelvic organ cancers can create complex patterns of tissue restriction throughout your core. Imagine your body's fascia - the continuous web of connective tissue that wraps around all your organs and muscles - as a silk dress. When you create a pull or snag in one area, it can create tension patterns that spread far beyond the original site. This is why:
A hysterectomy scar might lead to low back pain
Breast surgery could affect how your ribcage moves when you breathe
Abdominal surgery might create unexpected tension in your pelvic floor or result in headaches/jaw pain
The Ripple Effects of Hormone Changes
Whether from surgery, chemotherapy, or hormone-blocking medications, changes in hormone levels can significantly impact your pelvic health. Many women experience:
Vaginal dryness and tissue sensitivity
Painful intercourse
Urinary urgency or frequency
Pelvic pain or feelings of heaviness
Changes in sexual response
Joint stiffness and muscle tension
These symptoms aren't just "something you have to live with" - they're issues that can be improved with proper care and attention.
How We Help: Our Comprehensive Approach
Our approach to supporting cancer survivors goes far beyond basic exercise prescriptions. We understand that each woman's experience is unique, and we take time to listen to your specific concerns and goals.
Gentle, Targeted Manual Therapy
Our skilled therapists use specialized hands-on techniques to address:
Surgical scarring that may be restricting movement or causing discomfort
Muscle tension patterns that develop as your body adapts to changes
Fascial restrictions that might be contributing to pain
Pelvic floor muscle dysfunction
Many women find immediate relief from gentle manual therapy techniques, often saying they can finally take a full breath or move more freely than they have in months.
Addressing Intimate Concerns
We create a safe, comfortable space to discuss sensitive topics such as:
Changes in Sexual Function Treatment-related changes can significantly impact intimate relationships. We provide specific strategies to address:
Vaginal dryness and tissue sensitivity
Painful intercourse
Changes in arousal and sensation
Fear and anxiety around intimacy
Bladder and Bowel Health Many women experience changes in bladder and bowel function after cancer treatment. We help you regain confidence through:
Targeted exercises for improved control
Strategies for managing urgency
Techniques to ease constipation
Education about healthy bladder and bowel habits
Building Strength and Confidence
As you progress in your recovery, we'll help you:
Rebuild core, leg, and spine strength safely
Improve posture and body awareness for reducing pain
Return to exercise and activities you love
Prevent future problems which slow you down from living your best life
We’re Here to Help: Pelvic Floor Therapy and Cancer Treatment
Recovery isn't linear, and healing takes time. We're here to support you through each phase of your journey, celebrating progress and adjusting strategies as needed. Our goal is to help you feel strong, confident, and in control of your body again.
Your body has been through remarkable changes, and you deserve support in your recovery journey. If you're experiencing any of the symptoms we've discussed - or have other concerns about how cancer treatment has affected your body - we're here to help. Contact us to learn more about how our specialized physical therapy services can support your healing journey.