Common Issues Related To Pregnancy

Many of the issues that we treat occur during or following pregnancy. The female body undergoes such change during pregnancy and birth that it may require therapy to return the pelvis to working function. Frequent post-natal issues include diastasis recti, the separation of abdominal muscles, and dyspareunia, pain during intercourse. Incontinence and back pain are also common and are sometimes treated with medications, which do not address the root cause of the problem. Dr. Gacek’s treatments are designed to resolve a variety of issues women experience post-pregnancy.

Dr. Gacek’s services are centered around pelvic floor therapy and she treats conditions such as stress incontinence, urgency incontinence, SI joint dysfunctions, pre-partum and post-partum pelvic floor dysfunctions and back pain, dyspareunia, pelvic pain disorders, prolapse and diastasis recti.

Treatment for Post-Pregnancy Physical Therapy

At your first visit, an individualized evaluation is performed, which includes an evaluation of lumbopelvic mobility, pelvic stability, hip and pelvic muscle strength, and flexibility. Then a customized treatment and exercise plan is developed that is unique to your diagnosis and personal goals. Many of the issues most commonly addressed can be significantly improved in just one or two visits.

Dr. Gacek also provides wellness services with a general screening of the five most common musculoskeletal dysfunctions that women experience during the child-bearing year. This screening will check your posture, pelvic floor function, ergonomics, diastasis and pelvic stability.

About Dr. Marissa Gacek

Southern Rehab & Sports Medicine is excited to have Marissa Gacek, PT on our team! Dr. Gacek’s expertise in women’s health and pelvic disorders is an excellent addition to our clinic.

Dr. Gacek received a Bachelor of Science from Birmingham-Southern College in 2013 and in 2018 graduated with a Doctorate in Physical Therapy from the University of South Alabama in Mobile. She has taken the Level I Pelvic Function, Dysfunction, and Treatment Certification through the Herman and Wallace Institute and is certified in dry needling.

Dr. Gacek is one of five children and witnessed her mother suffer untreated post-natal issues, including diastasis recti. Her interest in pelvic disorders grew when she learned there are few pelvic specialists, making it difficult for patients to receive treatment for pelvic dysfunction.

Schedule an Appointment

If you are suffering any type of hip or lower back pain, incontinence, or pain during intercourse, call Southern Rehab & Sports Medicine for an appointment with Dr. Gacek!