What is Pelvic Health Physio?
We are experts in the assessment and treatment of pelvic health challenges. These can occur to anyone at any stage of life. Conditions include bowel and bladder urgency/frequency, constipation and difficulty emptying the bladder, leaking of urine, gas, or stool, pelvic heaviness/pressure, pain in the pelvis, painful sex, painful menstruation and trauma/abuse recovery.
Pelvic health physio is the most effective treatment for many of these conditions, or an essential part of integrated care (including medication, surgery, mental health therapy etc.).
We address these concerns through comprehensive assessment and treatment strategies that will be individualized to meet your needs and comfort level. We often focus on the pelvis’s muscles, nerves, and organs, but will commonly address the entire body.
Testimonials
“I came to pelvic physio not knowing what to do for my pelvic pain or why I was experiencing it. Shannon gave me a safe place to talk about sensitive issues and start understanding it. I always looked forward to our appointments as I found support through her encouragement and knowledge. There are many resources and practices she introduced me to that I continue to use to manage my pain. I highly recommend seeing Shannon!”
(Pelvic Pain, age 23)
Areas of Care
Mission & Approach
Mission
To provide the highest quality of pelvic health physio to all, while honoring the personhood, autonomy, and individuality of our clients. We support meaningful ongoing recovery by meeting every client where they are, to get them where they want to be.
Values
Collaboration: We pledge to work with you, not on you. We promote open communication between healthcare team members and will seek expert support in our field as needed. This is your journey, we are in the passenger seat with the map.
Compassion: Healing isn’t just physical. You need a safe and empathetic environment in which to be vulnerable and challenge yourself. Trust and consent are essential pillars of the recovery process. We know that the most powerful assessment and treatment tool is truly being heard.
Competence: Pelvic health issues are no joke, we need to know what we are doing. We have dedicated our careers to this. We stay up to date on current evidence, attend ongoing education courses/conferences, and support/educate each other. We welcome the medical advice of our healthcare colleagues and learn constantly from our clients.
Approach
Listen deeply, then leave no stone unturned. We benefit from a comprehensive and person-focused assessment approach. We may explore:
General health history
History of symptoms and previous treatments
Head to toe alignment and body mechanics
Nervous system sensitivity
Thoughts and feelings
Bladder & bowel function
Sexual function
Sleep health
Digestion
Pelvic floor exam
Posture
Relationship dynamics/family experiences
Stress / depression / anxiety
Coping strategies
Positive/negative experiences with other health professionals
History of trauma
FAQ
You will have an extensive conversation with your physio. Often we spend most or all of the first appointment talking. The goal of the first appointment is to deeply understand your concerns and start exploring what may be causing the issue. We may complete part of a physical exam (observing your posture, breathing style, movement patterns etc.) and start some treatment strategies. We typically do not complete a pelvic exam during the first appointment.
No! This is never a “required” part of the process. It is your physio's responsibility to explain why internal assessment/treatment may be beneficial if it is indicated. Many issues are related to the muscles and nerves inside the pelvis, so internal examination/treatment can be a very helpful part of the process. However, we always provide alternatives and will always respect and support your right to choose. Pelvic health issues can be treated without ever having an internal exam.
Yes! Pelvic health physio is covered under any standard “physio” benefits. We direct bill many insurance providers, or you can submit yourself.
Initial 1-Hour Assessment: $150
1-Hour Follow-Up: $190
45-Minute Follow-Up: $125
30-Minute Follow-Up: $100
You have your therapist’s undivided attention for your session. Pelvic physios engage in extensive post-graduate training, therefore the fees are sometimes higher than other types of physio.
Yes! Virtual (phone or video) appointments are the same cost as in clinic. Home-based appointments (we come to you) carry a surcharge of $20 due to travel time and additional insurance costs. If your home is more than 10 minutes away from Bodyworx Comox additional charges will be applied.
No! We are “primary access” health care providers so you can walk right in. You may have been sent to us by another healthcare provider, which is great. But you don’t have to be.
This is very common. Pelvic issues are very private and can feel embarrassing or shameful. We aren’t used to talking about them in an open way. Maybe we have experienced really painful pelvic exams and are worried that will happen again. Maybe we have experienced trauma or abuse and are scared to talk about it or to be touched. People who are nervous about these appointments always have a valid reason for feeling this way.
We will always meet you where you are. You are always allowed to have boundaries about what you want to speak about, what areas of your body will be touched, and what exams will take place. We are very comfortable with big emotions and uncomfortable things. Pelvic health issues are hard. If you would like to have a short phone call with a pelvic physio to determine if care is right for you please call our office and set up a phone call with Shannon.
You are always welcome to bring a partner, friend or family member to your appointment for support. We recommend childcare so you can focus on YOU during your appointment if possible. However, having children should never be a barrier to accessing healthcare. You are welcome to bring your children as needed.
Contact
156 Manor Drive Comox, BC, V9M 1C7
250.941.0540
office@bodyworxphysio.com