Incontinence - 7 Ways Physiotherapy Works

Physiotherapy can be highly beneficial for women experiencing incontinence. Here's how:

1. Pelvic Floor Muscle Training (PFMT): Physiotherapists can teach women how to correctly perform pelvic floor exercises, which involve contracting and relaxing the muscles that support the bladder, uterus, and bowel. Strengthening these muscles can help improve bladder control and reduce symptoms of incontinence.
   

2. Biofeedback: Physiotherapists may use biofeedback techniques to help women learn how to properly contract their pelvic floor muscles. This involves using special sensors to provide visual or auditory feedback, helping women better understand and control these muscles.
   

3. Electrical Stimulation: In some cases, physiotherapists may use electrical stimulation to help strengthen the pelvic floor muscles. This involves using a small electrical current to stimulate the muscles, which can improve muscle tone and control.
   

4. Education and Lifestyle Advice: Physiotherapists can provide education and advice on lifestyle modifications that can help manage incontinence, such as dietary changes, fluid intake management, and bladder training techniques.
   

5. Manual Therapy: Physiotherapists may also use manual therapy techniques, such as massage or stretching, to help address any muscle tightness or dysfunction contributing to incontinence.
   

6. Behavioral Techniques: Physiotherapists can teach behavioral techniques, such as bladder retraining and urge suppression strategies, to help women better control their bladder function and reduce episodes of incontinence.
   

7. Posture and Alignment Correction: Sometimes, poor posture or alignment issues can contribute to pelvic floor dysfunction and incontinence. Physiotherapists can assess and address these issues through exercises and ergonomic advice.
   

Overall, physiotherapy offers a holistic approach to treating incontinence in women by addressing the underlying causes and providing targeted interventions to improve bladder control and quality of life.