What Is Urinary Incontinence?
“Urinary incontinence” is a technical term for leaking urine by accident. It is a common condition in more elderly demographics, especially elderly women, although it can happen to anyone for a number of reasons. Fortunately, many types of urinary incontinence can be improved and/or cured with the help of physiotherapy. If you have been struggling with urinary incontinence and you are looking for help, contact Global Physiotherapy today to schedule an appointment with one of our dedicated Sherwood Park, AB physiotherapists.
Why Am I Experiencing Urinary Incontinence?
There are several reasons why someone may leak urine despite their control. Some short-term urinary incontinence may develop and disappear on its own due to a temporary condition, such as a urinary tract infection, vaginal infection, or constipation. Certain medications can even cause temporary bladder control problems that should clear up after use. However, if your urinary incontinence persists, it may be due to a larger underlying condition, such as:
- Weak bladder muscles
- Overactive bladder muscles
- Damaged bladder nerves, typically from diseases such as diabetes, multiple sclerosis, or Parkinson’s
- Difficulty getting to the bathroom in time, due to diseases such as arthritis
- Pelvic organ prolapse
- Damaged pelvic floor nerves, due to injury or surgery
In addition to the different ways in which urinary incontinence can be caused, there are also different types of urinary incontinence that can occur. The different types of urinary incontinence include:
Stress incontinence
Stress incontinence is caused when one experiences a urine leak due to pressure on the bladder. For example, stress incontinence can occur when exercising, lifting heavy objects, laughing, coughing, or sneezing. This is the most common type of bladder control problem in younger to middle-aged women, and it may occur around the time of menopause.
Urge incontinence
Urge incontinence is caused when there is a sudden and emergent need to urinate. Someone experiencing urge incontinence may not have enough time to make it to the toilet before leakage occurs. These types of bladder control problems can be a result of diabetes, Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, multiple sclerosis, or stroke.
Overflow incontinence.
Overflow incontinence is caused by a bladder that is always full, thus causing leakage to occur. For example, if a man has an enlarged prostate that is blocking his urethra, it can be difficult to empty the bladder. Other conditions, such as diabetes and spinal cord injuries, can also cause this type of bladder control problem.
Functional incontinence
Functional incontinence is caused when people have a condition that makes it hard to move to the bathroom quickly enough before leakage occurs. People with functional incontinence actually have normal bladder control; however, they have an alternative condition (such as arthritis) that makes it difficult to move and thus results in leakage if they cannot make it to the toilet in time.
If you are experiencing persistent urinary incontinence that has been occurring for several weeks or months, contact our Sherwood Park, AB physiotherapy office as soon as possible to seek help.
How Will Physiotherapy Help With My Urinary Incontinence?
At Global Physiotherapy, we know that living with urinary incontinence can be limiting – and even embarrassing at times, especially when it occurs during a social setting. Our Sherwood Park, AB physiotherapists are dedicated to improving your pelvic health, quality of life, and socialization, so you can get back to living your very best life.
When you arrive for your initial consultation, one of our physiotherapists, Jeri Williams 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. Typical treatments for those struggling with urinary incontinence typically includes:
- Increasing strength, stability, and endurance of the core, transverse abdominals, hip muscles, and pelvic floor.
- Increasing synergy and pattern of muscle firing between the pelvic floor and core.
- Performing strengthening exercises in functional and dynamic positions.
- Improving posture/positions.
- Modifying diet.
- Keeping a bladder diary and log.
- Participating in an exercising/walking/mobility program.
- Participating in functional activities.
- Participating in a home exercise program and instruction.
Get Relief Today,
Request An Appointment In Sherwood Park, AB
If you, or someone you are caring for, are struggling with urinary incontinence and you are looking for help, contact us at Global Physiotherapy today to schedule an appointment. One of our Sherwood Park, AB physiotherapists will get you started on the path toward urinary control and relief.