Incontinence Incontinence is the involuntary loss of bladder or bowel control. This common condition can affect both women and men of any age. There are several types of incontinence: Urge incontinence is a strong, uncontrolled desire to void resulting in loss of urine. The bladder is overactive and a person experiences increased frequency of urination. Stress incontinence may be due to poor bladder support by the pelvic muscles. This condition allows urine to leak when coughing, sneezing, laughing, or during other physical activities. Mixed incontinence is a combination of stress and urge incontinence. Overflow incontinence occurs when the bladder is overdistended and cannot empty normally. This leads to frequent loss of small amounts of urine. Fecal incontinence occurs when there is little or no control of bowel movements. Post-void dribble Constipation This is a common condition affecting both men and women that may interfere with the proper function of the pelvic floor. Inability to Urinate Weak stream of urine Pelvic Pain Many people experience chronic pelvic pain. It may be a constant or intermittent pain occurring in the back, perivaginal, rectal areas, lower abdomen, coccyx or thigh regions. Causes of these symptoms may include poor alignment of the pelvis, childbirth trauma, postural deficits, inflammatory disease and lumbar disc problems.

Physical Therapy for Pelvic Floor Dysfunction The Physical Therapy department at Hoag Hospital offers a comprehensive pelvic floor rehabilitation program for the treatment of urinary and fecal incontinence, constipation, inability to urinate and pelvic pain. Erectile dysfunction can also sometimes be helped with pelvic floor exercises. Experienced Staff Treatment is given by physical therapists who have special training in evaluation and treatment of these conditions. Initial Visit Physical therapy begins with an initial evaluation of each patient's: Medical history Child birth history (for females) Diet/fluid intake Pelvic floor strength and tone Sensation and reflexes Pain Stress level Treatment Education on anatomy and posture Education on proper bladder/bowel care Diet and fluid modifications Skin care Exercise Biofeedback Electrical stimulation Pain management Frequency: One to two times per week