Incontinence is a word commonly associated with the elderly or nursing home population. It can be used to describe any loss (small or large) of bladder or bowel control. It is the inability to predict and/or control when and where urination and/or bowel movements will occur.
Incontinence affects as many as 20 million men, women, and children of all ages. It is believed by many that this condition "comes with the territory" when experiencing childbirth or aging and that nothing can be done to correct it. With this mistaken belief, incontinence can lead to frustration, isolation and depression. It often leads to altering of an otherwise active lifestyle for fear of leakage or not being able to reach a bathroom in time.
There are many different types of incontinence. Some of the most common are:
- Stress Incontinence - a small amount of urine leaked by every day activities i.e. coughing, sneezing and laughing
- Urge Incontinence - the urge to urinate comes on so suddenly that it is often impossible to reach a toilet in time
- Overflow Incontinence - the bladder is constantly filled, causing it to release small amounts of urine frequently
- Reflex Incontinence - the absence of bladder control due to impaired nerve function
There are many causes of urinary incontinence, including:
- Infections
- Pregnancy / Childbirth
- Pelvic area surgery
- Obesity
- Chronic conditions such as MS, Parkinson's and Diabetes
The most common contributing factor to incontinence is weakness of the pelvic floor muscles. A number of foods, beverages, and medications may also contribute to these symptoms.
- Food and Beverages - coffee, other caffeinated drinks, alcohol, spicy foods, citrus foods, tomato based products, chocolate and artificial sweeteners
- Medications - sedatives, calcium channel blockers, antihistamines, pain relievers, anti-depressants and diuretics
Freedom Physical Therapy offers several interventions proven to successfully treat urinary incontinence without drugs or surgery. Treatment is private, confidential and covered by Medicare and most private insurances with a doctor's referral.
Our treatment includes:
- Review of diet and medications
- Behavioral Modification Training
- Education
- Development of an individualized exercise program
- Biofeedback
- Pelvic Floor Rehabilitation
- Pilates Method
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