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Incontinence - Unintentional Loss of Control

The unintentional loss of control of the bladder or bowel, or incontinence, is far more common than one would expect. It occurs among all age groups. Men and women both suffer from the problem, although loss of bladder control occurs more frequently among women. It is important to note that any loss of control is considered incontinence if it is unintentional and unacceptable to the patient.

For decades, incontinence has been associated with embarrassment, shame, and silence. It is a quality of life issue and can be difficult to talk about. According to the World Health Organization, 200 million men and women worldwide have symptoms of incontinence. In the US, 13 million men and women suffer from the problem. Two out of three pregnant women report problems with incontinence. Unfortunately, only one in 12 seek help when it first occurs and only half ever seek treatment.

Incontinence limits lifestyle in a variety of ways. Frequently, patients complain of social isolation and a fear of intimacy. The choice and type of clothing becomes limited. Many patients are reluctant to exercise. Frequent trips to the bathroom interrupt the normal sleep cycle and often limit the ability to travel. The loss of control of life is the most common impact of incontinence.

The causes of incontinence are varied. Frequently, muscle weakness around the bladder or bowel is the source of the problem. Over stimulated bladder or bowel muscles can also be a factor. Often, incontinence is a side effect of some medications or certain types of infections. Neurological disorders or nerve damage from childbirth or prostate surgery play a part as well. Pregnancy or hormone imbalance can also be a cause.

Treatment plans may include pelvic muscle reeducation with the help of biofeedback, pelvic floor exercises, and other modalities may also be utilized. Behavioral approaches such as bladder training, urge suppression, dietary and fluid modifications may be included in the treatment plan. The important fact is over 80% of incontinence can be corrected with medical intervention.

The Facts About Incontinence:

• The World Health Organization estimates 200 million men and women worldwide have symptoms of incontinence.
• 13 million Americans - men and women - suffer from incontinence.
• 67% of women had some issues of incontinence while pregnant.
• 1 in 12 seek help for incontinence when it first occurs and only half ever seek treatment.

Common Limitations:

• Frequently results in social isolation.
• Limits the choice and type of clothing.
• Reluctance to exercise due to loss of control.
• Inability to travel due to the need for frequent stops to void.
• Frequent trips to the bathroom interrupt the normal sleep cycle.
• Fear of intimacy due to the embarrassment of loss of bladder control.

Common Causes of Incontinence:

• Pelvic floor muscle weakness
• Overactive bladder
• Bladder weakness
• Side effects of certain medications
• Infections of the urinary tract
• Prolapsed organs
• Neurological dysfunction
• Difficult childbirth
• Imbalanced hormones in women
• Post-prostate surgery

Effective Physical Therapy Treatment Options:

• Education about bowel and bladder function
• Pelvic muscle exercise with the help of Biofeedback
• Behavioral approaches such as bladder training, urge suppression, dietary and fluid modifications
• Pelvic floor muscle stimulation
• Techniques to maintain control of bowel and bladder and prevent future incontinence

Who Benefits:

• Women of all ages
• Men of all ages

Frequently Asked Questions about The Personal Wellness Center

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Orthopedic Rehabilitation Associates
(719) 265-6601