Incontinence in Woodstock, GA

Incontinence occurs when a person loses control of the pelvic floor muscles, which support the bladder, rectum, and uterus. That means that they may not be able to control when they pee or poo and the uterus may prolapse into the vagina.

Although many may find it embarrassing to talk about this condition, physical therapy can help you. Your physical therapist in Woodstock is patient and ready to listen to your symptoms and concerns. They will also develop an appropriate treatment plan to help you heal as soon as possible.

What is Pelvic Floor Dysfunction?

The pelvic floor stretches from the pubic bone to the spinal cord and is comparable to a hammock that supports the organs of the pelvis, such as the bladder. Dysfunction occurs when the pelvic floor is damaged or weakened. Damage to the pelvic floor can result from childbirth, genetics, injury, medications, or surgery.

Problems that can arise from pelvic floor dysfunction include;

Urinary Incontinence

Urinary (or bladder) incontinence happens when you cannot keep urine from leaking out of your urethra, the tube that carries urine out of your body from your bladder. You may leak urine from time to time. Or, you may not be able to hold any urine.

Fecal Incontinence/Constipation

Numerous people suffer from pelvic floor dysfunctions such as fecal incontinence. Fecal incontinence results in the involuntary loss of stool or gas caused by decreased tonicity and contractile weakness of the anal sphincter. Fortunately, there is treatment available for anyone suffering from fecal incontinence. For the past 15 years, Teena Petree, P.T. has successfully treated this dysfunction with biofeedback and exercise.

When should you visit your physical therapist for Incontinence In Woodstock, GA

You should visit your physical therapist for treatment if you experience the following;

• Incontinence 
• Pelvic pain
• Frequent urination 
• A feeling of incomplete emptying after using the bathroom 
• Lower back pain
• Feeling of heaviness or something falling out of your pelvis
• Painful urination
• Straining to pass a bowel movement

Physical Therapy For Incontinence in Woodstock, GA

Physical therapy for incontinence consists of several treatment techniques to help address your situation. These techniques include;

Pelvic Floor Exercises

Pelvic floor exercises specifically target your pelvic floor muscles. These exercises (Kegels) require you to squeeze your muscles while imagining that you are trying to stop urine flow. Kegels strengthen your pelvic floor muscles to prevent incontinence and improve your sexual function.

Fortunately, kegels are easy to do. Your physical therapist can help you learn how to perform the exercises safely while targeting the right muscles.

Biofeedback

This treatment helps you see the muscles you are targeting during incontinence treatment. Biofeedback involves using an internal sensor to measure and monitor pelvic floor activity. 

If you are comfortable with this treatment, your physical therapist will insert a probe that displays results on a screen. When you squeeze your pelvic floor muscles, the probe will display when you have contracted the right muscles. 

Electrical Stimulation

This physical therapy technique can help reduce pelvic pain and incontinence. Your physical therapist will stimulate your pelvic floor muscles with low-grade electric current. The stimulation causes your muscles to contract, strengthening them and improving your symptoms.

Manual Therapy

Manual therapy is a hands-on treatment for incontinence. Your physical therapist will gently massage the tissue in your vagina to stretch the area and release painful knots. They will also communicate with you every step of the way to eliminate any discomfort you may feel.

Strengthening And Stretching Exercises

Your physical therapist may recommend other exercises besides kegels to address pelvic floor dysfunction. These exercises aim to reduce stress and strengthen muscles. You may undergo breathing exercises, yoga poses, sit-to-stand exercises, and clamshell exercises.

Why Should You Choose Incontinence Physical Therapy in Woodstock, GA?

Urinary incontinence may feel embarrassing - many people fail to speak up due to shame and fear of stigma. Some people are not even aware that there is treatment for pelvic floor problems. However, this condition is more common than you think. Also, we are here to help you treat this condition and regain your confidence. 

Your physical therapists are patient and will explain your reservations about treatment. They will also examine you closely to develop a tailored treatment plan. In addition, the treatment is progressive, and your physical therapist at FYZICAL Therapy & Balance Centers - Hickory Flat will make adjustments when necessary.

Get in touch with us today!

FAQs

What Is Urinary Incontinence?

Urinary incontinence, also known as loss of bladder control, occurs when the bladder cannot hold urine. It can range in severity. For instance, you may occasionally leak urine when you cough, laugh, or sneeze, or you may have a sudden strong urge to urinate and cannot get to the toilet in time.  

How Does Physical Therapy Help Urinary Incontinence?

Physical therapy consists of techniques to help strengthen your pelvic floor muscles to prevent incontinence. Your physical therapist will work with you so that you can coordinate your pelvic floor muscles and regain your bladder control.

How Do You Do Physical Therapy For Incontinence?

Physical therapy for incontinence consists of different treatment techniques, from exercises to biofeedback. Your physical therapist will assess your condition to create a tailored treatment plan. The plan will consist of tailored treatment techniques to strengthen your pelvic floor muscles and support your bladder function.

What Causes Urinary Incontinence?

Physical problems and underlying medical conditions can weaken your pelvic floor muscles, leading to urinary incontinence. Age, pregnancy, obesity, and a family history of incontinence can increase your risk of developing this condition.