Urinary Leakage Any leakage of urine is embarrassing and inconvenient. The most common types of leakage seen in clinic are leakage during exertion (such as coughing, sneezing, exercise, or sexual activity) and leakage associated with a sudden strong urge to go. These are known as stress and urge urinary incontinence. There may also be leaking associated with particular surgeries, for example of the prostate, and in situations of prolapse.
Frequent Urination Frequent urination disrupts sleep and restricts normal daily activities. It may be accompanied by a sensation of incomplete emptying or difficulty initiating the flow of urine.
Bladder Pain Bladder pain can be maddening- it interferes with your concentration, work, and even sleep. Your pain may have been diagnosed as overactive bladder syndrome, interstitial cystitis, painful bladder syndrome, endometriosis, or other pelvic pain disorder.
The causes of bladder dysfunction are usually multi-factorial, and may be due to pelvic floor muscular dysfunction, restrictions around the bladder, ligament tension resulting from pelvic malalignment, consumption of bladder irritants, autoimmune or neurologic components. A thorough evaluation must be completed before treatment and exercise programs can begin.
Constipation According to the NCBI constipation is the most common gastrointestinal complaint in the United States. While constipation can include dietary factors, it can also be greatly influenced by the function of the muscles and nerves in the pelvis. Physical therapy can address the functioning of these structures, as well as the mechanics of passing stool, and in many cases can resolve cases of chronic constipation!
Fecal Incontinence (including gas, liquid, solid, or smearing) The pelvic floor muscles work as sphincters to keep bowel movements and gas in until you are ready to pass them. In cases of fecal leaking, the pelvic floor is not able to adequately do its job. There are many factors that may contribute to this, and a thorough evaluation is key.