Stress Incontinence

Stress incontinence is the involuntary leaking of urine with activities such as coughing, laughing, changing positions, or exercising. Stress incontinence is usually the result of pelvic floor muscle weakness. Weakness can be the result of childbirth, a tear or episiotomy, hormonal changes, high impact activities, organ prolapse or general muscle deconditioning. Physical therapy treatment may include:

• Biofeedback (computerized device that teaches you to contract & relax your pelvic floor muscles)
• Pelvic floor exercise
• Abdominal stabilization exercises
• Gentle electrical stimulation

Urge Incontinence

Urge incontinence is the involuntary loss of bladder control due to an overwhelming and sudden urge to urinate. It is often difficult to get to the bathroom before having an accident. Physical therapy treatment may include:

• Bladder diary
• Bladder retraining (learning to hold larger volumes of urine and increase time between bathroom trips)
• Dietary modifications
• Biofeedback
• Therapeutic exercises
• Gentle electrical stimulation
• Relaxation techniques
• Soft tissue mobilization