Stress Incontinence
“Urinary incontinence” is a technical term for leaking urine. It is a common condition in the older population, but it can happen throughout the lifespan for a number of reasons. Though it is common, it is not something that should be ignored. And pelvic health physical therapy can help!
Stress incontinence is one common type of incontinence. This occurs when there is an increase in pressure on the bladder and the muscles aren’t able to hold back the urine. This commonly occurs with activities such as exercising, lifting heavy objects, laughing, coughing, or sneezing. This is the most common type of bladder control problem in younger to middle-aged women.
Fortunately, urinary incontinence can be controlled and/or cured with the help of physical therapy. If you have been struggling with urinary incontinence and you are looking for help, contact Peak Physical Therapy and Sports Medicine in the Kyle today to schedule an appointment with one of our licensed therapists.
Why am I experiencing stress incontinence?
There are several reasons why someone may leak urine. Sometimes it is related to urinary tract infection, vaginal infection, upper respiratory illness with a cough, or constipation. These leaking episodes tend to be short-term and may disappear on their own once the underlying issue is cleared up.
Certain medications may even cause temporary bladder control problems. However, if your urinary incontinence persists, it may be due to a larger underlying condition, such as:
- Weak pelvic floor muscles
- Tight pelvic floor muscles
- Overactive bladder muscles
- Damaged bladder nerves, typically from diseases such as diabetes, multiple sclerosis, or Parkinson’s
- Damaged pelvic floor nerves, due to injury, childbirth, or surgery
- Difficulty getting to the bathroom in time, due to conditions such as arthritis
- Pelvic organ prolapse
- Blockage from an enlarged prostate
- Prostatitis
- Benign prostate hyperplasia
If any of these conditions sound familiar, don’t hesitate to contact (Practice Name) to schedule an appointment. Our team can provide you with relief and connect you with a specialist if necessary.
Understanding the pelvic floor
Pelvic pain is no joke. The pelvic area is an important part of the body that serves many purposes, especially for women. Pelvic pain can happen at different points throughout your menstrual cycle, during pregnancy, after giving birth, and even as a result of an underlying condition. Some pelvic conditions may also result in painful intercourse or infertility issues.
Dealing with pelvic pain alone can be very confusing and scary, but luckily, it can be addressed and possibly fixed through pelvic floor rehabilitation. Some of the most common pelvic conditions that our physical therapists treat include postpartum pelvic pain, pain following abdominal surgery, dyspareunia, and endometriosis.
Take a look at the following reasons for pelvic floor pain:
Why am I experiencing pelvic floor pain?
- A recent abdominal surgery. If you are recovering from a recent abdominal surgery, pelvic floor rehabilitation can assist with breaking up scar tissue, improving strength, and regaining range of motion in your abdomen/pelvic region.
- Endometriosis. Endometriosis is a condition many women suffer from without even knowing it. This condition can affect the bones, muscles, ligaments, and nerves in the pelvic region and cause excess scar tissue. Pelvic floor rehabilitation can help reduce the pain and bloating that you may be experiencing with endometriosis, in addition to strengthening the pelvic floor muscles.
- Urinary leakage or frequency. If you’re struggling with urinary incontinence, a physical therapist can help determine the root of your problem. Instead of simply treating the symptoms, your physical therapist can focus on the cause and focus on strengthening the muscles under your bladder. This will help treat and eliminate your incontinence issues.
- Constipation. Pelvic floor therapists can loosen and relax the muscles in your pelvic and anal areas, which can help relieve and eliminate constipation.
- You recently had a baby. After giving birth, it is common for new mothers to experience strained muscles and/or connective tissue damage in their pelvic floor. Pelvic floor rehabilitation helps with postpartum pelvic pain, in addition to strengthening and restoring any damaged muscles or tissues.
Contact Peak Physical Therapy and Sports Medicine in Kyle for relief!
At Peak Physical Therapy and Sports Medicine, we know that living with stress incontinence can be limiting – and even embarrassing at times, especially when it occurs during a social setting. Our licensed physical therapists are dedicated to improving your pelvic health, so you can get back to living your very best life.
When you arrive for your initial consultation, one of our physical therapists will perform a physical examination to determine the strength of your pelvic floor. Your physical exam, along with an evaluation of your medical history and discussion of your symptoms, will help in determining the best route for your treatment plan.
At Peak Physical Therapy and Sports Medicine in Kyle, we incorporate a holistic approach to pelvic health care, including education, methods to reduce stress, exercise, and yoga therapy.
If you are struggling with stress incontinence and you are looking for help, contact us today to schedule an appointment. One of our physical therapists will get you started on the path toward urinary control and relief!
