Pelvic floor therapy (PFT) is a specialized form of physical therapy that addresses muscle tone and function in the pelvis, abdomen, and surrounding joints. Since sessions involve movement analysis and direct muscle assessment, choosing the right attire is important for patient comfort and treatment effectiveness. This guide provides suggestions for selecting clothing that facilitates a productive therapy experience.
Prioritizing Comfort and Mobility
The initial phase of PFT involves a movement assessment, where the therapist observes how your hips, back, and pelvis move during activities like squatting, walking, or lunging. Clothing must allow for a full range of motion without restriction, similar to items worn for exercise.
Clothing separates, such as a comfortable t-shirt or tank top and flexible bottoms, are preferable to one-piece garments like rompers or jumpsuits. Recommended lower-body options include athletic shorts, yoga pants, or leggings made from stretchy, breathable fabric. A loose-fitting top is helpful because a therapist may need to lift it slightly to assess the abdominal wall or perform manual therapy on the abdomen or lower back. Free movement ensures the therapist can accurately observe joint mechanics and muscle activation patterns.
Specific Attire for Internal Assessments
Pelvic floor therapy often includes an internal examination (vaginal or rectal) to assess the strength, tone, and control of the internal pelvic muscles. While the upper body remains fully clothed, the lower body requires easy access. Patients do not undress completely; instead, bottoms are lowered or removed under a drape or sheet in a private setting.
Selecting pants or shorts that can be quickly and easily taken off and put back on is highly recommended. Loose-fitting sweatpants or shorts are ideal, as they can be adjusted without struggle, unlike very tight compression leggings. Non-restrictive, simple underwear is best. Shapewear or girdles should be avoided, as they can interfere with the therapist’s ability to palpate surrounding tissues.
Restrictive Clothing and Accessories to Avoid
Certain items of clothing and accessories can impede the therapeutic process and should be left at home. Stiff materials, such as heavy denim jeans or leather, are not appropriate because they severely limit movement and make it nearly impossible for the therapist to observe subtle shifts in posture or muscle engagement.
Accessories like heavy belts or large jewelry around the waist, neck, or wrists can interfere with manual therapy techniques or palpation. Highly compressive garments can restrict blood flow and nerve conduction, which may skew the therapist’s assessment of muscle tension and function in the pelvic area. Opting for simple, soft clothing without intricate closures ensures the focus remains entirely on the body’s movement and the therapy itself.