Name
#59 - Pelvic Floor Dysfunction’s Direct Impact On Operational Readiness and The Need for Additional Healthcare Provider Awareness to Improve Care for this Patient Population
Date & Time
Tuesday, February 13, 2024, 12:00 PM
Description

Pelvic floor dysfunction (PFD) is an operational readiness issue that affects roughly one-third of women and nearly one-fifth of men, with the number potentially being higher in specific population such as pilots, divers, and jumpers. In 2022 the Department of Defense spent .4 million in off-base referrals, though this number is likely low due to inconsistent diagnosis/naming. Pelvic floor dysfunction includes but is not limited to: urinary incontinence, pelvic pain, pelvic organ prolapse, painful intercourse, painful bladder syndrome, constipation, low back/hip pain, testicular pain, and peripartum/postpartum pain. Additionally, pelvic floor dysfunction can be tied to many orthopedic conditions, making physical therapists the first line of defense to treat these issues. The Department of the Air Force Women’s Initiate Team is actively working to streamline referral processes for those affected service members. However, there is a need for increased education and awareness of pelvic floor dysfunction among health care providers to advocate for appropriate referral services to qualified pelvic floor physical therapists.

Location Name
Prince Georges Exhibit Hall A/B
Content Presented on Behalf of
Air Force
Learning Outcomes
1.The participant will understand pelvic floor dysfunction and its’ impacts to operational readiness. <br />
2.The participant will understand how to screen for pelvic floor dysfunction and coordinate the specialized care needed. <br />
3.The participant will understand the need for a standard of care for active-duty service members impacted by pelvic floor dysfunction.
Session Type
Posters