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Constipation

Eliminate constipation with targeted physical therapy

Constipation
Constipation is a common digestive issue that can affect people of all ages. It occurs when bowel movements become infrequent or difficult to pass, often leading to discomfort and a reduced quality of life. While occasional constipation is normal, chronic or persistent symptoms can signal an underlying issue—often involving the muscles and coordination of your pelvic floor.

Symptoms of Constipation

Constipation isn’t just about having fewer bowel movements—it can come with a range of uncomfortable symptoms that affect your daily life. The symptoms can include:
  • Straining or pushing hard to have a bowel movement
  • Feeling like you’re not fully emptying
  • Hard, dry, or lumpy stools
  • Bloating or abdominal discomfort
  • Needing to use your fingers or body positioning to help pass stool
  • Fewer than three bowel movements per week

If these symptoms sound familiar, pelvic floor physical therapy can help improve your ability to pass bowels effectively, by retraining your muscles, addressing water and fiber intake, lack of physical movement, and environmental factors – just to name a few.

Symptoms of Constipation
How Your Pelvic Floor Can Cause Constipation

How Your Pelvic Floor Can Cause Constipation

Your pelvic floor is a group of muscles at the base of your pelvis that supports your bladder, bowels, and other organs. These muscles help control when you go to the bathroom—and when you don’t. If they aren’t working properly, constipation can become a recurring issue.

When the pelvic floor muscles are too tight or don’t coordinate well, they can make it difficult to fully relax when you need to have a bowel movement. This can lead to straining, incomplete emptying, and the constant feeling that you still need to go.

Over time, this can make your constipation worse, creating a cycle of discomfort. If your constipation isn’t improving with diet or hydration, your pelvic floor might be the issue.

How Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy Can Help

Pelvic floor physical therapy focuses on retraining the muscles involved in bowel movements, so they work the way they should. Through targeted exercises, hands-on techniques, and relaxation strategies, physical therapy can help you:
  • Increase awareness of how your body signals the need for a bowel movement.
  • Address any tightness or dysfunction contributing to constipation.
  • Learn how to properly relax your pelvic floor when going to the bathroom.
  • Improve coordination between your abdominal and pelvic muscles.
  • Reduce straining and discomfort.
    How Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy Can Help

    What to Expect During Your Sessions

    During Your Initial Appointment

    Your first appointment starts with a comprehensive evaluation, including reviewing your medical history. We discuss your symptoms in detail, asking questions so that we can learn more about you and any pain you are experiencing.

    We’ll then conduct a thorough physical assessment, focusing on the areas causing discomfort, including the abdominal and pelvic floor muscles. This is a hands-on evaluation from head to toe. It will most likely involve evaluating external and internal pelvic floor muscles, with the purpose being to trace your issue to its source(s) in order to reduce your discomfort and/or symptoms related to constipation.

    These internal manual techniques are applied to the structures of the pelvis. This includes the pelvic floor muscles, nerves, and bones. We also want you to be as comfortable as possible during the session – you always have the right to refuse treatment at any time without explanation.

    During Your Additional Appointments

    Each visit is customized to fit your needs. We use hands-on therapy (with your permission), patient education and special exercises to help eliminate your symptoms. Our treatments focus on tackling the root causes of your constipation.

    Client Testimonials

    I had been dealing with persistent lower back pain for almost six months. Tried painkillers, stretching, even yoga, but nothing seemed to help long term. A colleague recommended Beyond Basics, and honestly, I’m grateful they did. Within four sessions, my pain had reduced drastically. They taught me posture corrections and exercises I still use daily.
    After my wrist fracture healed, I was struggling with stiffness and couldn’t grip objects properly. I honestly thought I’d just have to live with it, but a friend urged me to try physical therapy. I’m so glad I listened. After a few sessions focused on mobility, strength, and hand coordination, I regained almost full function. They even showed me techniques I could use while typing at work.
    After injuring my shoulder while lifting at the gym, I was referred here by a friend who swore by their recovery process. I wasn’t sure at first, but by the second week, I noticed a real difference in my mobility. The therapist created a personalized plan and explained every step. They focused not just on healing but making sure I didn’t repeat the same mistake again.
    After undergoing abdominal surgery, I was struggling with swelling, stiffness, and a general feeling of heaviness that wouldn’t go away. My doctor mentioned lymphatic drainage as a way to speed up healing and reduce inflammation, so I decided to give it a try. I had no idea how much of a difference it would make…The sessions were incredibly relaxing yet deeply effective. My therapist used gentle, rhythmic movements to encourage lymph flow, and I could actually feel the tension releasing from my body. After just a couple of appointments, I noticed a significant decrease in swelling, and my overall discomfort was much lower…What surprised me most was how much this therapy helped beyond just reducing swelling. My digestion improved, my energy levels increased, and I felt more ""normal"" again after weeks of post surgical sluggishness. If you are recovering from surgery, I cannot recommend lymphatic drainage enough it was truly a game changer in my healing process!
    I saw Harsh during my pregnancy for severe pubic pain and for preparation for birth. Harsh is incredibly knowledgeable and professional, and also has a very kind bedside manner. She always made me feel very comfortable, and it was great to work with her. I was able to manage my pain better because of our sessions. She is great!
    For years, I struggled with bladder issues that slowly started to affect my daily life. Sneezing, laughing, or even just going for a short walk could lead to embarrassing leaks, and I found myself constantly planning my day around bathroom access. I thought this was just something I had to live with until I found pelvic floor therapy. From the very first session, I felt heard and understood. My therapist took the time to explain what was happening with my body in a way that made sense, and for the first time, I realized that this was not just ""part of getting older"" or something I had to tolerate. The exercises were gentle but effective, and within just a few weeks, I started noticing changes. I could go longer without worrying about sudden urges, and my confidence began to return. Now, a few months later, I feel like a completely different person. No more wearing pads ‘just in case’ or feeling nervous about long car rides. If you are dealing with bladder dysfunction, please don’t wait as long as I did pelvic floor therapy truly works, and I only wish I had started sooner!
    As an athlete, I never considered pelvic floor therapy until I started experiencing hip pain and core instability. I had no idea how much my pelvic floor contributed to overall strength and performance! My therapist tailored exercises to improve my endurance, posture, and core control. Within weeks, I felt stronger, ran more efficiently, and even reduced my risk of injury. This should be essential for any active person!
    I went to go see Kiko for tailbone pain that I had ignored for 20 months since giving birth. She gave me a thorough assessment and explained the reasons behind the persisting pain. She looked at my body as a whole, not just the pelvic area and we are addressing other problem areas that have been causing the pain. I can’t believe how much I’ve improved even after just one session. Her bedside manners are great too and I feel very comfortable working with her. I highly recommend this place for all new mamas!
    KIKO is everything! She helped me through a surprisingly tough postpartum period (physically & mentally) for baby #2. Every session we have a tailored approach (internal & external work) that is helping me accelerate my healing. I'm excited to do my homework and get back to business soon! Also, whenever I have new issues (pain with sneezing?!) she addresses it immediately and then, we go back to the plan. I'm so grateful for her (and the admin staff who has dealt with my re-scheduling due to having a toddler & newborn). Love Beyond Basics!
    I have had an amazing experience working with Kiko. She takes a holistic approach to assess and address your individual needs. Working with Kiko has dramatically reduced the symptoms of a condition I have had for many years, when nothing else I have tried has helped. My quality of life has greatly improved and I am very grateful!
    I saw Harsh during my pregnancy to strengthen my pelvic floor and prepare for birth, as well as to help combat common pregnancy discomforts. I’m seeing her now postpartum as well. Harsh is absolutely amazing!!!!!!!! She has the sweetest and most professional bedside manner and has been great at helping me to be more mindful of how I move my body, giving me helpful exercises to do at home, and most importantly, relieving pain and discomfort. I give her a lot of credit in preparing me for what was a very successful birth experience with minimal tearing, as well as helping me recover well postpartum. She is simply the best in every way!!!!!!
    I thought my sciatica was just a back issue, but therapy revealed my pelvic floor was also contributing. With targeted internal and external work, the nerve irritation finally started to ease. I wish I’d known sooner that the pelvic floor could be part of the puzzle.
    For years, I was told my pain was in my head. After multiple scans and specialists, I finally landed in pelvic floor therapy. The therapist validated my pain and showed me how tight, overactive muscles were causing it. It wasn’t instant, but with time, I felt real relief and validation.
    After years of dealing with painful periods and pelvic tension, I thought discomfort was just part of being a woman. But pelvic floor therapy opened my eyes to how much I was holding in my body. The release techniques, breathwork, and posture training made a world of difference. I feel lighter physically and emotionally.
    Sonali is really good physiotherapist.
    High quality, physical care
    Response from the owner:Thank you so much for your kind words! We're thrilled to hear that you experienced high-quality care during your visit. At Beyond Basics Physical Therapy, we strive to provide the best possible care to all of our patients, and we're glad it made a positive impact on your experience. We look forward to continuing to support your health and wellness journey!
    I found this clinic on Maps during a desperate late-night search for pelvic floor help so glad I did. Kind, skilled, and truly effective care.
    I found this place on Maps when my pelvic pain flared up best decision ever. I felt real progress after just a few visits.
    Response from the owner:Thank you so much for sharing your experience! We're so glad you found us and that you've already started feeling progress with your pelvic health. It's our mission to provide the best care possible, and we're thrilled to have been part of your healing journey. We look forward to continuing to support you!
    Post-surgery, I had swelling that wouldn’t go away. Lymphatic drainage therapy made a huge difference! The treatment was gentle but effective, and I felt lighter and more energized after just a few sessions. Highly recommend for faster recovery!
    My child struggled with bedwetting, and we had tried everything. Pediatric pelvic floor therapy was the answer! The therapist was kind and engaging, and within weeks, accidents became rare. It’s been life-changing for our family!
    I love going to Beyond Basics! I saw tremendous improvement after just two months of working with them. They are incredibly patient, knowledgeable, and professional! They carefully explained the purpose of each exercise, and provided guidance on how to do them correctly. They always checked my progress and made adjustements with their approach if I needed more guidance. Finding them has been life-changing!
    Very knowledgeable skilled understanding and friendly. Highly recommend
    Response from the owner:Thank you for your kind words and recommendation! We're so glad to hear that you had a positive experience with our team. Providing knowledgeable, skilled, and compassionate care is our top priority, and we're thrilled it made a difference for you. We appreciate your support and look forward to working with you again!
    I cannot recommend pelvic floor physical therapy enough! From the moment I walked into the clinic, I felt completely at ease. The therapist was incredibly knowledgeable, professional, and compassionate. They took the time to listen to my concerns and explained every step of the process, which made me feel empowered and confident in my treatment plan.
    Vivian is the best physical therapist I have ever worked with. She is patient, knowledgeable, and truly cares about my progress. Each session is a full hour, and she gives me her full attention, something I never experienced elsewhere. Other clinics rushed through sessions and left me to do exercises alone. Before Beyond Basics, I spent a year at another clinic with no progress on my overactive bladder. With Vivian, I finally feel real improvement. I am so grateful to have found her and Beyond Basics. They have truly changed my life.
    I love how clean and soft my carpets feel underfoot now. It’s amazing how much of a difference a deep clean makes.
    Very helpful!
    Response from the owner:Thank you for your feedback! We're so glad to hear that you found our services helpful. We’re always here to assist you whenever you need us!
    Sonali is one of the most caring and kind person I have come across. As a patient and most importantly as a female, to find these two qualities in a therapist are not only extremely important but also extremely rare to find.
    Response from the owner:Thank you for sharing such a heartfelt review! We're so happy to hear that we made such a positive impact on your experience. Compassionate care is at the core of what we do, and we're thrilled that you felt both supported and understood. We truly appreciate your kind words and look forward to continuing to be part of your healing journey!
    I am working with Sonail. She is a skilled practioner both with hands and heart.
    Response from the owner:Thank you so much for your wonderful review! We're thrilled to hear that you're having a positive experience with Sonali. She truly puts her heart into her work, and it's great to know that both her skill and compassion are making a difference for you. We appreciate your feedback and look forward to continuing to support your health!
    I want to thank Dr. Solani Patel. Throughout my treatment she has been gentle, polite, patient and very knowledgable. Each of the exercises she gave me were very relevant to my condition and very helpful.
    Response from the owner:Thank you so much for sharing your experience! We're so glad to hear that Dr. Solani Patel has made a positive impact on your treatment. Her combination of knowledge, patience, and personalized care is something we take great pride in. We're happy that the exercises have been helpful, and we truly appreciate your kind words. We look forward to continuing to support your journey to recovery!
    Beyond basics is such an amazing space for rehabbing postpartum pains and aches.
    The therapists are incredibly knowledgeable, kind, gentle, and wonderful at their job!
    As a dancer, I received the expert care I needed to return to work with confidence.
    Beyond Basics is one the best places to go for physical therapy.... I'm extremely happy I started going here, and it's very convenient, being that it's directly across the street from Grand Central. My physical therapist, Radhi Kadakia, is awesome and highly recommended!
    Response from the owner:Thank you so much for the fantastic review! We're thrilled to hear that your experience at Beyond Basics has been so positive, and that the location is convenient for you. Radhi Kadakia is truly an asset to our team, and we're so glad to hear that you recommend her! We appreciate your feedback and look forward to continuing to support your healing journey!
    Vivian is fantastic! I felt like in just a few minutes she identified the reason I’ve been having so much so joint and hip area oain for the past couple of years. I had seen multiple different docs/specialists and no one had been able to figure anything out. She gave me some exercises to help gain more connectivity and activation on my glutes (I over-rely on my core and quads and not enough in my posterior chain), and when I said I’d be more likely to do them if I had a video demo she kindly did demos and let me record them!

    I’ll also add that I’m a childbirth educator and both doula and have been recommending this practice for years because colleagues and clients have raved about them but only recently did I get to actually experience this for myself. (In fact, I ran into one of my birth class students when I went to my appointment!) Now I can recommend even more highly!
    Emily Moore is the most insightful, ingenious and effective PT I have ever worked with, and I've worked with over a dozen over the past 30 years. I wish they were a little more Medicare compliant, but even if it costs more, to me, it's worth it.
    PT Danielle is phenomenal. She knows about the entire body. She gave me exercises for my upper right back which are paying off. BBPT sends you a follow-up email with videos about how to do the exercises. They are awesome.
    Response from the owner:Thank you for the amazing review! We're so glad to hear that Danielle's expertise has made a difference in your recovery. It’s great that the exercises for your upper back are helping, and we’re happy that the follow-up videos have been useful for you. We truly appreciate your feedback and look forward to continuing to support your progress!
    Carson has been extremely informative and helpful in my PT journey. She has been great at keeping me at ease and explaining to process, and being straight forward about our goals in therapy. Very glad I found Carson and Beyond Basics.
    Response from the owner:Thank you so much for your kind words! We're thrilled to hear that Carson has been so helpful and informative during your physical therapy journey. It's great that she’s been able to keep you at ease while being clear and straightforward about your therapy goals. We're so happy you found Carson and Beyond Basics, and we look forward to continuing to support your progress!
    I had a great experience at Beyond Basics! I was nervous about going to physical therapy, but Sonali was so professional and nice, which made me feel a lot more comfortable. Sonali fully solved my pelvic floor issues in only a few sessions. She gave me stretches to do on my own time to move my progress along and also to ensure I don't lose any progress I've made. The receptionist Jasmine is also great-she is really helpful when it comes to scheduling appointments. I can't recommend Beyond Basics enough!
    Response from the owner:Thank you so much for the glowing review! We're so happy to hear that Dr. Sonali made you feel comfortable and helped resolve your pelvic floor issues so quickly. It's wonderful that the stretches she provided are keeping you on track with your progress. We're also glad to hear Jasmine has been helpful with scheduling! We truly appreciate your recommendation and look forward to continuing to support you on your journey to better health!
    Great care - wonderful therapists. Head and shoulders above most other Physical Therapy practices.
    Response from the owner:Thank you for the wonderful review! We're so glad to hear that you received great care and that our therapists have stood out to you. Providing exceptional physical therapy is our top priority, and we're thrilled to know that we've made such a positive impact. We appreciate your support and look forward to helping you continue on your healing journey!
    Sonali was wonderful! Extremely knowledgeable and understanding. Excellent facility.
    Response from the owner:Thank you so much for your kind words! We're thrilled to hear that our team have provided excellent care and that you had a great experience with us. We take pride in offering a knowledgeable and supportive environment, and we're glad it made a positive impact on your visit. We appreciate your feedback and look forward to seeing you again!
    The waiting room--always decorated--is a welcoming space. Makela is respectful, resourceful and wonderfully clear in spoken and physical instruction. It is truly a pleasure to work with her,
    I highly recommend Beyond Basics Physical Therapy. Great staff!
    Danielle Santora is exceptionally well-informed, a great listener and and a great educator. She is that rare person who knows her business and has the sensitivity to deal with a delicate subject.
    Response from the owner:Thank you for sharing such a thoughtful review! We're so pleased to hear that Danielle Santora made a positive impact on your experience. Her expertise, listening skills, and sensitivity are qualities we deeply value, and we're glad to know that she helped you feel comfortable while addressing your concerns. We truly appreciate your kind words and look forward to continuing to support you!
    Eliza is amazing! I am seeing her for pelvic floor PT due to pregnancy related discomfort and in just 2 sessions she has helped reduce my pain/discomfort a lot. She has a very kind and comforting bedside manner and makes you feel very at ease. I highly recommend her.
    Sonali Patel is an excellent physical therapist. She is very knowledgable about pelvic health, and has great manual therapy and communication skills. I highly recommend her.
    Response from the owner:Thank you for your wonderful review! We’re so glad to hear that Dr. Sonali Patel has made a positive impact on your treatment. Her expertise in pelvic health, along with her manual therapy and communication skills, are qualities we truly value. We appreciate your high recommendation and look forward to continuing to support your healing journey!
    This place is amazing!!! I worked with Sonali. She was extremely knowledgable and our sessions were very thorough. Sonali was so compassionate and helped me feel so supported. I felt like she really understood what I was going through. I saw great improvements and am very satisfied with the whole experience. Highly recommend!
    Response from the owner:Thank you so much for your glowing review! We're thrilled to hear that Dr. Sonali was able to provide such compassionate, thorough care and that you saw great improvements. We’re so glad that you felt supported and understood throughout your sessions. Your recommendation means the world to us, and we’re happy to have been part of your journey to better health!
    Wonderful place, I've worked with Makela previously, she's "as good as it gets". Natural healer, empathetic, pleasant, smart,,,,,,,what more can u ask for?
    If you’re looking for someone to address all your concerns, this is the place. Eliza is great
    Vivian Zhang at Beyond Basic PT is awesome! She took my concerns seriously and, using exercises and physical releases, improved my breathing and quality of life.
    My experience with Beyond Basics has been outstanding! Danielle is incredibly insightful, professional, and an excellent communicator. She is truly an expert and I am very grateful to have her in my journey!
    Response from the owner:Thank you for the wonderful review! We're so glad to hear that Danielle has made such a positive impact on your experience. Her expertise, professionalism, and communication skills are truly valuable, and we're happy that she's been part of your journey. We appreciate your kind words and look forward to continuing to support you!
    Sonali Patel is a miracle worker! I came to Beyond Basics with really bad TMJ issues and Sonali was able to provide me almost instant relief from years of tension. I've never felt better and she taught me some really awesome tips I can use myself moving forward. Overall I had a really great experience at Beyond Basics!
    I’ve now been to Beyond Basics at two different points in my life for two different reasons. They are truly the experts. I walk away from each session in awe of the deep knowledge base of my physical therapist Sonali, who I trust and respect deeply. I have dealt with other physical therapy offices in the past and nothing can compare to the level of care, comfort, professionalism, efficiency, and effectiveness of this office. I actually look forward to my appointments. Highly recommend for anyone with GI issues of any kind or has had a baby!
    Response from the owner:Thank you so much for your thoughtful and detailed review! We're thrilled to hear that your experiences with Dr. Sonali and Beyond Basics have been so positive. It's wonderful to know that the care, comfort, and professionalism you receive here stands out compared to other places. We’re grateful for your recommendation and look forward to continuing to support you in your journey to better health!"
    I highly recommend Beyond Basics for pelvic floor PT. My therapist, Vivian, was friendly, thoughtful, respectful, and knowledgeable. She knows what she’s doing and made great suggestions for exercises I could do on my own. I had great results in combination with treatment recommended by my doctor. The facility is clean and staff are welcoming. Highly recommend.
    A terrific therapist who made an awkward procedure comfortable and normal. She is smart, sensitive , knowledgeable and a delight to be with during therapy
    Response from the owner:Thank you for the wonderful review! We’re so glad to hear that your experience was comfortable and positive. Our therapists strive to create a supportive and caring environment, and we’re thrilled that their knowledge and sensitivity made a difference for you. We truly appreciate your kind words and look forward to supporting you on your journey to recovery!
    Beyond Basics is the Physical Therapy place to go for exceptional, friendly, knowledgeable, and personalized care for your physical rehabilitation, particularly following surgery and pelvic floor strengthening. Danielle, Physical Therapist, is awesome!
    Response from the owner:"Thank you so much for your fantastic review! We’re so glad to hear that you had an exceptional experience with Danielle and Beyond Basics. Providing personalized, knowledgeable, and friendly care is our priority, and it’s wonderful to know that we’ve made a positive impact on your rehabilitation journey. We appreciate your feedback and look forward to continuing to support your recovery!
    Incredibly caring, experienced and professional. Highly recommended.
    Makela is an amazing PT. The office staff is wonderful and the space is great. Highly recommend.
    Danielle Santora saved my life! I have made more progress working with her than any other PT. She’s incredibly kind, always willing to meet you where you’re at but not afraid to push you to be better. I would not be anywhere close to where I am today without her detailed and consistent guidance.
    Rachel at Beyond Basics downtown is an outstanding, highly skilled, patient, kind and dedicated physical therapist. I love going to see her, she helps me so much. *Highly* recommended!
    Sonali is outstanding. She is very knowledgible and helpful. Plus, very pleasant.
    Response from the owner:"Thank you for your kind words! We're so glad to hear that Dr. Sonali has been both knowledgeable and pleasant during your visits. We truly appreciate your feedback and are happy to have her as part of our team. We look forward to continuing to support you on your health journey!
    I was afraid to go out because of my overactive bladder.  Vivian Zhang saved my life.  My life improved tremendously after spending two months with her.

    She is very patient, knowledgeable, and professional.  She spends a full hour with me which I could not find in any other physical therapy.  She gave me so much attention and continued to look for the root cause of my problems.  She explains the purpose of the exercises.  She teaches me the exercises and makes sure I do it correctly.  She will check my understanding in the next session to make sure I do it correctly.  If I don’t do it correctly, she will find another way to explain to me and check my understanding.   All other physical therapy just spends 30 minutes on me and leaves me alone to do the exercises myself.  They don’t check to see if I am doing it correctly.  Before coming to Beyond Basic, I was in another physical therapy for a year and was not able correct my overactive bladder problem.  I am so lucky to have found Vivian and Beyond Basic.
    You don't take my insurance.
    Very clean. Therapists are super friendly and extremely professional. Very knowledgeable and walk you through everything.
    Response from the owner:Thank you for your kind words! We’re so glad to hear that you had a positive experience with our team. We take pride in providing a clean, professional, and welcoming environment, and it's great to know our therapists' knowledge and support made a difference. We truly appreciate your feedback and look forward to seeing you again!
    Excellent in all respects. The therapists are dedicated professionals who go above and beyond to help you deal with your issues.
    Response from the owner:"Thank you so much for the excellent review! We're thrilled to hear that our therapists have gone above and beyond to support you. Providing dedicated, professional care is our priority, and we’re so glad it’s made a positive impact on your experience. We truly appreciate your feedback and look forward to continuing to assist you!
    Top notch therapists, excellent care, Carson great.
    Response from the owner:Thank you for the fantastic feedback! We're so glad to hear that you received top-notch care and that Carson made a positive impact on your experience. We truly appreciate your support and look forward to continuing to assist you with your care!
    Superb and attentive care. Highly recommended!
    I've really appreciated my experience so far at Beyond Basics, working with Makela. I was nervous going into pelvic floor physical therapy and she was respectful and considerate of my hesitation. She also makes a great effort to connect with other members of my treatment team, which makes me feel like I'm being supported holistically. I have already noticed improvement in my daily life, and I'm very grateful!
    I’ve been seeing Vivian Zhang for almost a month now for chronic lower back pain. Her approach from the get-go has been based on translating my narrative of symptoms into a comprehensive treatment plan, combining targeted exercises, corrective behaviors, and skillful musculoskeletal manipulation. After almost a year of suffering pain I can finally see the end! Beyond Basics justifies their name. To speak nothing of those rockstar plants in the waiting area!
    Beyond Basics has the best physical therapists I've been to in NYC. They've provided the best treatment for chronic fibromyalgia, reducing my pain & increasing my functionality enormously. Highly recommended.
    I had known about pelvic floor therapy for more than year before making my first appointment. My only regret is not booking my appointment sooner. Pelvic PT has helped me overcome a long-standing issue, and it has been life-changing.

    From the moment I walked in, the team made me feel welcomed and supported. They took the time to understand my concerns and designed a personalized treatment plan just for me.

    Vivian used a holistic approach, combining various techniques and exercises to address my pelvic floor concerns. With her guidance, I regained control and experienced a remarkable improvement in my symptoms.

    What impressed me the most was her caring and empathetic approach. She created a safe space where I could openly discuss my concerns, and she provided exceptional support throughout the entire journey.

    I am forever grateful to Beyond Basics. If you're struggling with pelvic floor issues, don't hesitate to seek their help. They are truly outstanding in their care and commitment to patient well-being.
    Beyond Basics has been nothing short of transformative in my health journey. After years of having my pain dismissed by various doctors, I found an OBGYN who identified that I had a hypertonic pelvic floor and should seek pelvic floor physical therapy.

    I searched on Google and am so grateful I came across Beyond Basics - this is truly an outstanding place if you are looking for pelvic floor experts. I have never encountered such holistic, patient-affirming care before.

    I was fortunate to be matched with Joanna, one of their incredible physical therapists. Joanna is so knowledgeable and an absolute joy to work with. She is not only a very skilled pelvic floor therapists, she is also patient, incredibly emotionally intelligent, and funny, and could brighten up even the worst day in my long healing journey with the crack of a joke.

    Thanks to Joanna and Beyond Basics, I have learned so much about my body and have developed concrete tools and pelvic floor relaxation techniques. I feel empowered in my own journey and it was worth every cent !

    I will say that while the price of sessions can feel daunting, they do make an effort to make pelvic health more accessible through a sliding scale and spacing out sessions. Their goal is not to make you dependent on their physical therapists, but to help you develop tools and skills so you can take control of your own health and live a pain-free life.

    I cannot recommend Beyond Basics enough. I hope one day all women will know about pelvic floor physical therapy and be able to access this amazing practice !
    At Beyond Basics I found the help I needed for my Postpartum recovery after a traumatic delivery. Little did I know all the benefits I could get from pelvic floor PT. Here I learned a lot of tools to have a better pelvic health and improve my wellbeing. I really recommend pelvic floor PT to all women! This will help you for life.
    Vivian has been my PT and she is great! She has helped me in a lot of ways, physically and emotionally, she’s caring and very knowledgeable.
    Also, the girls from front desk are very kind.
    Beyond basics is a great place!
    My experience with Beyond Basics has truly been life changing!

    After having a variety of symptoms without a true diagnosis for months, I found Beyond Basics, and, while I was completely unfamiliar with pelvic floor physical therapy before going there, I quickly realized the benefits even after my first session.

    I've now been working with Vivian Zhang for almost a year, and I am continuously amazed by her work. Out of all of the medical professionals that I've worked with in the past, Vivian has shown the most care and interest in my well being. Healing is definitely a journey, and Vivian has shown the utmost respect and patience for me as I work through ups and downs of my personal path. With Vivian, I feel like I have a trusted resource and someone who genuinely listens to me, and that has made such a difference in my recovery.

    I cannot thank Vivian, and Beyond Basics as a whole, enough for the improvement that they've made to my quality of life and I highly recommend this practice to anyone who is even remotely considering pelvic floor PT!
    Eliza was so great to work with. She was very helpful. She is caring and compassionate. She helped me feel better. Grateful for all of her support. Can’t say enough good things. Would be better if they accepted insurance though.
    Beyond Basics PT identified my needs and listened to my concerns as well as planned a treatment regimen that addressed the fundamental causes of my issues. Makayla knowledge regarding body mechanics is extraordinary.
    I needed a specialized pt called pelvic floor therapy following rectal surgery. I found Vivian Zhang a very able and knowledgeable therapist at Beyond Basics Physical Therapy on William Street in lower Manhattan. After six weekly one hour sessions, I had a significant improvement in returning to a normal life. Vivian was very clear in her instructions, provided illustrated email instructions for at-home exercises and was available via email as needed. She was also very patient and kind with this 87 year old client.
    Dr. Spielman and the Beyond Basic staff are amazing. The front desk is kind, friendly and very helpful when booking appointments.

    Dr. Spielman is a life saver. She helped me at a time when I had experienced months of debilitating pain. I had seen multiple specialists and tried various medications to no avail.

    Dr. Spielman was the first doctor to diagnose me with an overly tight pelvic floor. She has helped me with workouts, stretches and provided me with important anatomical information on my road to recovery.

    I am so grateful for her and I can't recommend both Dr. Spielman and Beyond Basics enough!
    I received excellent care at Beyond Basics
    I have been a patient at the Beyondbasics PT for almost 3 years and they successfully helped me with both the pelvic floor and orthopedic issues.
    I have health issues and I have used several physical therapists in the past.
    Beyond Basics is the best!!
    They were recommended to me by my doctors
    And I am grateful for the recommendations.
    Beyondbasics PTs are knowledgeable, attentive, patient and kind.
    Front desk representatives are very friendly and kind.
    Thank you
    I am extremely grateful for Ekta's work. She figured out a complex problem within 2 visits. Importantly, I now understand the problem and know what to do to fix it. I went to so many medical specialists and Pelvic PT's and they couldn't figure out problem. I highly recommend Beyond Basics a perfect name.
    Excellent treatment, knowledgeable therapist. Very informative and comfortable experience.
    Joanna was super helpful, knowledgeable, and caring. Would absolutely recommend!
    we-can-help

    Beyond Basics: We Can Help

    At Beyond Basics, we are committed to treating pelvic floor issues with sensitivity to each individual’s needs, regardless of sex, race, identity, age, or orientation – we treat the whole person with a comprehensive, caring biopsychosocial approach.

    Since 2003, Beyond Basics has been a place of hope and healing for our patients. We believe skilled and compassionate healing can restore your body’s harmony and balance. Founder, Amy Stein, and co-founder, Corey Hazama are renowned experts and leaders in pelvic floor PT.

    The skilled physical therapists at Beyond Basics receive extensive training to qualify them to be the world’s leaders in pelvic floor rehabilitation. All of our therapists have been carefully selected to work at Beyond Basics because they possess the right expertise, kindness, and empathy to allow them to excel at our practice. Our therapists have completed hundreds of additional hours outside of their doctorates both internally and externally through institutes such as Herman and Wallace and the American Physical Therapy Association, to help hone their practice and provide exceptional treatment efficiently and compassionately. In addition to being the world’s first and foremost experts in pelvic floor dysfunction, our individual therapists have cultivated additional skills unique to their own personal interests. Read more about each one of our therapists here.

    Get help now from a pelvic floor therapist for constipation.

    Constipation

    — Beyond Basics PT | Pelvic Floor Therapy NYC.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    How do I know if my constipation is related to my pelvic floor?
    If you struggle with chronic constipation, especially if you feel like you can’t fully empty your bowels or have to strain excessively, your pelvic floor muscles might be involved. We can assess your muscle coordination and recommend strategies to improve your bowel movements.
    Can pelvic floor therapy help if diet and lifestyle changes haven’t worked?

    Yes! Many people try diet and lifestyle changes, like increasing fiber and drinking more water, but still experience constipation symptoms. If your digestive system isn’t functioning properly due to tight or uncoordinated pelvic muscles, therapy can help retrain these muscles to make bowel movements easier and more consistent.

    Do I need bowel function tests before starting pelvic floor therapy?

    Not necessarily. A healthcare professional might recommend bowel function tests if they suspect a deeper issue with your digestive tract, but many cases of constipation can be evaluated and treated through physical therapy without additional testing. If needed, your therapist can work alongside your doctor to develop a comprehensive treatment plan.

    Is pelvic floor therapy an alternative to stimulant laxatives?

    Yes, and it could even help you rely on them less. Stimulant laxatives force the digestive tract to contract, which can sometimes make bowel habits unpredictable. Pelvic floor therapy teaches your body how to naturally coordinate bowel movements, helping you treat constipation without long-term medication use.

    Can constipation be connected to other digestive diseases?

    Yes, conditions like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and other digestive diseases can contribute to constipation. However, even if you have a digestive condition, improving pelvic floor muscle function can still help prevent constipation and make bowel movements easier.

    What if I have rectal prolapse? Can pelvic floor therapy still help?

    Rectal prolapse happens when part of the rectum slips out of place, which is often due to chronic straining or weakened pelvic muscles. Pelvic floor therapy can strengthen these muscles and improve bowel movements, potentially reducing your symptoms.

    Can certain medications cause constipation?

    Yes, some medications, like blood pressure medicines, can slow down the digestive system and make your bowel movements less frequent. If you suspect your medication is affecting your digestion, talk to a health care professional before making changes. Pelvic floor physical therapy can still help treat constipation by improving muscle coordination.