Western Slope Women: Take Control of Your Pelvic Health

If you're a woman living on the Western Slope, chances are you or someone you know has dealt with pelvic health issues at some point. Whether it's urinary incontinence, painful sex, or chronic low back pain, these problems can have a significant impact on daily life. But the good news is that physical and occupational therapy can help. Bobbi Franco, a physical therapist with UCHealth SportsMed Clinic, is working to educate women about the importance of pelvic health and how to address common issues.

The pelvic floor is a complex system of muscles that play a crucial role in our overall health. It's a sling or hammock of muscles that runs from the pubic bone to the tail bone, and side to side between the sitz bones. These muscles help us control our bladder and bowels, enable us to have healthy sex lives, and even support our deep core muscles. But when the pelvic floor is out of balance, it can lead to a range of problems, from incontinence and pain to chronic low back and hip pain.

For women on the Western Slope, pelvic health issues can be particularly common during pregnancy, childbirth, and after giving birth. In fact, Franco sees many older women who have been dealing with incontinence for decades after having children. But it's not just new mothers who are at risk - anyone who spends a lot of time sitting at a desk or experiences high levels of stress can also develop pelvic floor dysfunction. If you're someone who spends long hours working at a desk in Grand Junction or commuting from Montrose, you may be putting your pelvic floor at risk.

What This Means for You

So what can you do to protect your pelvic health? First, don't hesitate to talk to your primary care provider about any symptoms you're experiencing. Whether it's urinary urgency, pain during sex, or chronic low back pain, seeking help early on can make a big difference. Franco encourages women to ask about referrals for physical or occupational therapy, which can help address underlying issues and prevent long-term problems. And if you're pregnant, don't wait until after giving birth to seek treatment - many therapists, including Franco, work with expectant mothers to help them prepare for a healthy delivery and prevent postpartum complications.

In terms of treatment, Franco's approach is holistic and focused on empowering women to take control of their pelvic health. She works with patients to develop exercises and strategies that can be incorporated into daily life, whether that's modifying your lifting technique or practicing relaxation techniques to reduce stress. The goal is to make pelvic floor exercises a seamless part of your daily routine, so you can focus on living your life without worrying about your pelvic health. For example, if you're a hiker who loves exploring the trails around Ouray, Franco can help you develop strategies to protect your pelvic floor while you're on the go.

Taking Action

If you're experiencing pelvic health issues, don't wait to seek help. Talk to your primary care provider about your symptoms and ask about referrals for physical or occupational therapy. With the right treatment and support, you can take control of your pelvic health and start living the life you want. Whether you're a busy professional in Glenwood Springs or an active retiree in Delta, prioritizing your pelvic health is essential for maintaining your overall well-being. By taking proactive steps to protect your pelvic floor, you can reduce your risk of long-term problems and stay healthy, happy, and active for years to come.