Urine Leakage
Urine leakage, also known as urinary incontinence, has been normalized from our previous generations. Common belief is that it can be inherited and that we just need live with it. However, pelvic floor physical therapy is here to help. Yes, these symptoms are fairly common. We laugh with our group of friends joking about peeing our pants when we sneeze or laugh too hard. Even though many in the group may shake their heads, this does not mean that peeing yourself is normal.
Common management for urine leakage can include medications from your doctor or consistent panty liner and pad usage. Medication can include anticholinergics or antimuscarinic agents for overactive bladder. These medications have many side effects including increased mouth and vaginal dryness, increased constipation, and even increased risk for dementia. Furthermore, utilizing pads and panty liners consistently can increase perineal irritation and overall discomfort.
Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy can assist with many urinary symptoms, many times with making small lifestyle changes. A full head to toe assessment can provide good results with urinary symptoms. A physical therapist may evaluate one's jaw mobility and pain, mid back mobility, overall digestive function and efficiency, hip and low back mobility and pain, pelvic symmetry and stability, and ankle mobility to name a few. Also, a walking assessment, squatting ability, balance testing, and other functional movements could be looked at depending on one's goals.
A complete assessment of mobility and functional movements along with discussion of lifestyle habits that could be contributing to urinary symptoms can greatly improve pelvic floor function and decrease urinary leakage. Remember that urine leakage with laughing, coughing, sneezing, jumping, and lifting is common, but it does not have to be your normal. Take control of your bladder. Email or call with any questions today.
Also, check out our FREE Happy Bladder handout at the end of the main Blog page.
Here at the Healthy Conversations Blog we talk about many therapy services, symptom presentations, prevention, and varying treatment options. The goal is to arm you with some knowledge to start a conversation with your healthcare providers. This Blog is not meant to be personal medical advice. Discussions solely involve our educated opinions. Every person’s health journey is different, and a full assessment would be recommended before prescribing any form of treatment.
Reach out to Heather@MagnoliaMovementPT.com for questions.