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Physiotherapy for Women
At Brisbane Spine Clinic we understand that there are times when our female clients would prefer to see a physio of their own gender.
That’s why we are delighted to welcome Ms Jiaming (Caroline) Sui to our team, to provide physiotherapy for women.
Caroline is passionate about women’s health, and providing treatment to women when other health professionals may have only suggested painkillers and/or surgery.
What does Physiotherapy for women involve?
As a physiotherapist, Caroline recognises that no single body part operates in isolation.
“Our body functions as a whole, so rather than treat one particular area, I treat the whole person.” – Jiaming (Caroline) Sui from Brisbane Spine Clinic.
The Pelvic Floor
There is no ignoring the fact that many women suffer from pelvic floor issues – and most of these can be improved with physiotherapy.
What’s so important about the Pelvic Floor?
Like a sling, the pelvic floor muscles support the pelvic organs above – the uterus, bladder, bowel, etc.
Over time, and as a result of pregnancy and childbirth, these muscles can stretch and lose tone, meaning that they are no longer as effective. Women may experience difficulties with:
• Urinary stress incontinence (leaking urine when coughing, sneezing, or laughing);
• Bowel habits (constipation or urgency);
• Sexual dysfunction;
• Pelvic floor prolapse; and
• Lower back pain.
These can all have a negative impact on a woman’s quality of life.
How physiotherapy for women can help
The good news is that a physiotherapist can prescribe specific exercises which are effective in reducing, or even reversing, pelvic floor symptoms in 80% of women.
However, the benefits of physiotherapy for women extend far beyond a better pelvic floor. Whatever your stage of life, Caroline will work with you to reduce pain and discomfort, and improve your freedom of movement.
Physiotherapy for adolescent girls
Hormones, rapid growth, mobile phones, heavy school bags, and even seemingly healthy pursuits such as sport, can cause pain, strain and injury in teenage girls.
A physiotherapist can assist with not only recovery in the short term, but also with preventing further problems in adulthood.
Pregnancy and birth
During pregnancy, hormonal changes and the extra weight of the baby can cause issues throughout the body – from tailbone pain to hypermobility in the knees or other joints. Low back pain is extremely common, affecting up to 50% of all women during the pregnancy and postnatal period.
As the use of medications and painkillers is discouraged at this time in a woman’s life, visiting a physiotherapist like Caroline is an excellent option.
Postnatal support
Babies are heavy! Feeding, and constantly bending and lifting your baby, can cause pain and discomfort particularly if not done correctly. A physiotherapist can provide you with guidance on how to look after your back and provide you with simple exercises to start strengthening your muscles following the birth of your child.
Menopause and beyond
As bone density declines after menopause, osteoporosis is common. Recent research however, has revealed that it is possible to halt, or even reverse this loss, with weight-bearing exercises prescribed by a physiotherapist.
Aches, pains, and falls, should never be dismissed as a natural part of ageing – it is important to investigate and treat, to help you remain healthy and active well into your senior years.
What to expect from physiotherapy for women
At your first visit, Caroline will ask you about your specific symptoms and how they are impacting your daily life, your medical history, and conduct a full body assessment. Your treatment may include any of the following:
- An individualised exercise program;
- Manual therapy;
- Training in relaxation and breathing techniques;
- Advice on modifying specific lifestyle habits – such as sleeping position, diet, and posture.
Don’t suffer in silence, take care of your body. Call 3841 3070 to make an appointment with Caroline, our physio for women’s health.
About Caroline
Ms Jiaming (Caroline) Sui is a musculoskeletal physiotherapist with a particular interest in women’s health conditions. Devoting her career to physiotherapy, Caroline obtained:
- Bachelor’s degree in the field of musculoskeletal physiotherapy.
- A Certificate in Dry Needling.
- Certificate in Sports Physiotherapy.
As an outcome of her study and experience, Caroline found her passion for helping women and treating their health issues through non-invasive physiotherapy techniques. She supports women with conditions such as pregnancy-related back pain and hip pain, post operation pelvic organ prolapse, pelvic floor issues and other female related conditions.
