Pediatric Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy

Kids have pelvic floors too, and we are here to help them take control! Let’s talk about it…

What does pediatric pelvic floor dysfunction look like?

When kids have issues with their pelvic floors, it usually comes in the form of constipation, bed-wetting, potty training difficulties, or urinary or fecal incontinence. Our pelvic floors contribute to all of these things. Even sphincter control, being able to control when voiding urine and passing stool, and organ support depend on our pelvic floor muscles. Although these issues can happen to anyone, they can be more likely for children with a history of urologic, gastroenteric, or neurologic conditions. Our therapists are here to help with whatever needs your child may need!

How do we help?

Pelvic floor physical therapy differs greatly between young people and adults.

First, we assess functional movement, developmental milestones, food and drink intake, bladder and bowel habits, daily challenges, and more, based on every child's specific needs. Often, a non-invasive external assessment of the pelvic floor muscles can be helpful to ensure proper function.

After the assessment, we work with each family to find practical ways to address the issues you are all experiencing. By incorporating play into the exercises we try to make it fun for your child. We focus on optimizing fluid and food intake, enhancing core strength and muscle coordination, adjusting positioning, addressing sensory issues, and offering recommendations for daily routines that fit your family’s lifestyle.

Conditions we treat related to children

    • Daytime leaking

    • Leaking with jumping, laughing or other activities

    • Bed-wetting

    • Urinating often (frequency)

    • Pain with peeing

    • Difficulty holding pee

    • Difficulty emptying the bladder

    • Rushing suddenly to the bathroom (urgency)

    • Potty training issues

    • Constipation: hard stools, excessive straining, infrequent bowel movements

    • Painful bowel movements

    • Fecal smearing

    • Difficulty holding in stool

    • Pain in the pelvis

    • Abdominal Pain

    • Low Back Pain

    • Hip Pain

Dr. Bryn Zolty, PT DPT

Bryn Zolty, PT, DPT joined the Insight Pelvic Health Team in 2024 as our designated pediatric therapist. She is a board certified in pelvic floor therapy and in the use of biofeedback for pelvic muscle dysfunction. Her experience and dedication to pediatric services is a welcome addition to our team.

Ready to Learn More?

If you think pelvic floor physical therapy may help your child, please fill out the contact form below. We will be in touch soon!