Stress Urinary Incontinence can be an embarrassing topic, and not something you typically bring up at the dinner table. Stress Urinary Incontinence (or SUI) is the loss of urine without effort or physical exertion. The main culprits tend to be laughing, coughing, sneezing, running, or jumping, and SUI is often due to an underactive or a non-functioning pelvic floor.
There are many types of urinary incontinence, such as: stress, urgency, postural, nocturnal, mixed, coital, and insensible. The International Continence Society (ICS) reports that urinary incontinence is a stigmatized, under-reported, under-diagnosed, and an under-treated condition that is thought to be a normal part of aging.
In fact, one-third of the population believes that it is normal to experience urinary incontinence. Today we are going to discuss Stress Urinary incontinence (SUI), but do not hesitate to reach out to one of our seven physical therapists that specialize in treatment of pelvic floor related issues.
So, what can cause an underactive or non-functioning pelvic floor?
Childbirth, advanced age, elevated body mass index (BMI), Type 2 Diabetes, medications, congestive heart failure, heavy lifting, and decreased overall mobility are just some of the many causes that can lead to urinary incontinence. ICS research reveals that one in four women over the age of 18 experiences episodes of urinary leaking involuntarily. On average, women wait over 6 years from their first leaking episode until they report it to their physician and receive a diagnosis of urinary incontinence. Maybe you, or someone you know, is suffering from stress urinary incontinence, now what do you do?
Pelvic Floor Rehabilitation (commonly referred to as Women’s Health Physical Therapy) can help you address your urinary incontinence issues by performing a clinical evaluation and developing a tailored plan of care. It will address hypertonicity (strong contraction), hypotonicity (weak contraction), pain, decreased range of motion (ROM) in the lumbar spine or lower extremities, core and pelvic muscle weakness, posture, and breathing techniques. Education will be given about your diet and fluid intake, including bladder irritants, such as caffeine and alcohol. The main goal of pelvic health physical therapy is to improve your quality of life and help you achieve your goals.
It would be a privilege to serve you at one of our five clinics that offer pelvic floor rehabilitation. We offer free consultations and would love to answer any questions or concerns you may have.