At The Rehabilitation Institute of St. Louis, we understand that incontinence and pelvic pain can be a sensitive issue for both women and men. We also know that, contrary to popular opinion, these problems are not a normal part of pregnancy or the aging process that must be accepted. In fact, incontinence and pelvic pain are often treatable through a physical therapy program.
The first step in treating pelvic pain and incontinence is to determine the cause of the problem. An examination by your physician can provide this information. Once the cause is determined, you may benefit from treatment designed to relieve pain and to strengthen and retain the pelvic muscles.
Treatment begins with a complete postural alignment, movement, and strength evaluation. From this evaluation, an individually tailored treatment program is provided in a confidential environment by a specially trained physical therapist.
Through simple exercises and dietary modifications, symptoms of incontinence frequently diminish. Pelvic pain may also be alleviated with a physical therapy regimen.
Treatments may include:
- Exercises -
Prescribed to strengthen and retain muscles. This helps to decrease or eliminate symptoms.
- Biofeedback -
Used to promote better tone and control of the pelvic floor muscles as well as train the pelvic floor muscles to relax.
- Electrical Stimulation -
A painless treatment option used to relieve pain or help pelvic floor muscles work properly.
- Education -
Provided regarding pelvic anatomy and problems, as well as techniques to use in your daily routine to help ease symptoms.
People experiencing any one of the following types of incontinence (loss of bladder or bowel control) may benefit from physical therapy:
- Stress Incontinence -
Uncontrolled urine loss during activities such as laughing, coughing, sneezing or lifting.
- Urge Incontinence -
The sudden, intense urge to urinate, even when there may be little urine in the bladder.
- Fecal Incontinence -
Uncontrolled loss of stool during normal daily activities.
- Constipation -
Decreased frequency of bowel movements.
Also people who have pelvic pain may benefit from physical therapy. Common causes of pelvic pain could be:
- Post-surgical scarring, weakness, or tightness
- Musculoskeletal pain during or after pregnancy
- Pain after delivery from trauma or episiotomy scars
If you suspect you could benefit from pelvic physical therapy:
- Contact your physician and make an appointment
- Obtain a prescription / order from your physician for physical therapy. They order should include: your name, diagnosis, current date, and physician signature.
- Schedule an appointment with a specially-trained pelvic therapist at The Rehabilitation Institute of St. Louis by calling 314.658.3950.
- Be sure to bring the order from your physician to your initial evaluation or fax it to The Rehabilitation Institute of St. Louis at 314.286.8501.
Referrals / For More Information
For more information or to make a referral, please call 314.658.3950.
