Incontinence is the loss of bladder or bowel control at the wrong time or place. It can be just a few drops or enough to run down your legs or wet the floor. There are many myths surrounding incontinence – such as it’s an inevitable part of aging, or to be expected after childbirth. However, incontinence can affect anyone of any age, of either sex. It’s estimated to affect 1 in 3 women at some point in their lives and 1 in 9 men, and studies show that over 80% will get better with physiotherapy, without the need for medication or surgery.

Treatment
Physiotherapy is always done in a private treatment room with the same physiotherapist, providing sensitive, professional treatment. It starts with a thorough assessment. Detailed questions will ask about your pain, affects on your lifestyle, your medical history, questions about your bladder, bowels, diet and menstrual cycle. A physical examination will then follow, which may include your posture, lower back, hips, abdominal muscles and breathing patterns. When possible, an internal vaginal and/or rectal examination will be performed. The internal exam helps to identify any dysfunctions with the pelvic floor muscles: are they too weak or too tense and tight? Are you able to contract and relax them freely? The exam will move at your pace, so that you feel safe and in control at all times. No speculums or stirrups are used, and we only proceed with your consent.
Once the examination is complete, a discussion follows: explaining the findings, and exploring treatment options. It is a good opportunity for you to ask questions to gain a better understanding of your problems.
The goal of Physiotherapy is to restore normal range of movement to any restrictions in joints and muscles, and to correct movement patterns to improve and restore function. We will teach you how to move and control your muscles in a coordinated fashion with other muscle groups: lengthening tight muscles, strengthening weak muscles.
We will educate and coach you on how to pace activity in a safe way for return to normal activities. It is a good opportunity for you to ask questions to gain a better understanding of your problems.