How to STOP Leaky Bladder

It is embarrassing and inconvenient to leak when you laugh, cough, sneeze, play with your kids, or exercise. Sometimes, you're just not fast enough to get to the toilet and leak along the way.

These are common issues. You are not alone! But a leaky bladder is not normal. Normal function can be restored with pelvic floor physical therapy.

What causes leaky bladder?

Leaky bladder, also known as urinary incontinence, can have several different causes, including:

1. Weak Pelvic Muscles: The pelvic floor muscles are responsible for supporting the bladder, and if they become weak due to pregnancy, childbirth, aging, or certain medical conditions, they may not be able to control bladder function properly.
2. Overactive Bladder Muscles: If the muscles of the bladder contract too often or too strongly, it can cause leakage.
3. Nerve Damage: Nerves that control the bladder may be damaged, leading to leakage.

How Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy Stops Leaky Bladder

Pelvic floor physical therapy is a non-invasive treatment option for leaky bladder (urinary incontinence) that can be effective in reducing or even eliminating symptoms. The therapy involves working with a trained physical therapist to strengthen the muscles of the pelvic floor and improve bladder control. 

First, your physical therapist will look at your overall general movements. What is your pelvic alignment? What's the strength and flexibility of your spine, your core or abdominal muscles, and your glutes or your hips?

As an option, an internal exam can be performed to assess the pelvic floor muscles further. Are they overactive? Do you have increased muscle tone? How are your strength, endurance, and coordination?

Your personalized treatment plan will be developed based on the exam findings to address and heal pelvic floor muscle dysfunction.

The therapist may teach exercises to help you identify and contract the pelvic floor muscles, which can help you control urine flow. The therapist may also teach you techniques to improve your posture, breathing, and relaxation, which can help reduce stress on the pelvic floor muscles and improve bladder control.

How long does treatment last?

Treatment times vary based on how your body responds. Most patients report notable progress after the first visit. You can expect to return to normal activities without pain or leaking after 6 to 12 visits.

There are many benefits of pelvic floor physical therapy. The most important is getting rid of pain, restoring intimacy with your significant other, and returning to normal activities with strength, confidence, and no limitations.

Ready to heal your pelvic floor?

The next step is to schedule your evaluation. This is a one-hour appointment with a physical therapist to determine your personalized treatment plan.

Schedule Pelvic Evaluation →