Riverside Healthcare | The Journey | Fall 2023

2 RiversideHealthcare.org WOMEN Have the bladder blues? Don’t stay silent! Urinary incontinence is one of those health problems that happens mostly to women. And it can be very embarrassing. It can be challenging to admit it’s a problem—or to talk about. But it’s important to let your primary care provider (PCP) know if it’s happening to you. Urinary incontinence can be treated. First, though, you have to ask for help. You don’t have to live with leaks If you are experiencing urinary incontinence, it’s important to talk to your provider. Effective treatments are available. Your provider may talk with you about physical therapy for your pelvic floor. Riverside’s pelvic floor clinic is staffed by knowledgeable physical therapists devoted to providing patients with methods to regain their confidence. Physical therapy provides a noninvasive, evidence-based approach to managing urinary incontinence. Working with a skilled physical therapist allows individuals to develop personalized treatment plans tailored to their specific needs and goals. With time, dedication and guidance, physical therapy can empower individuals to regain control over their bladder function and enjoy an improved quality of life free from the limitations of urinary incontinence. Urinary incontinence is more than annoying. It can lead to rashes, sores, skin infections and urinary tract infections. And the fear of it happening can lead to social isolation. So talk to your provider about it, and get the help you need. Sources: American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists; American Academy of Family Physicians How physical therapy can help with bladder issues 1 It can strengthen the pelvic floor muscles. A physical therapist can teach specific exercises, such as Kegels, that target these muscles. By regularly performing these exercises, individuals can improve the strength and endurance of their pelvic floor, leading to better bladder control and reduced leakage. 2 It can help increase muscle coordination. In addition to strength, pelvic floor muscles require proper coordination. Physical therapists can guide individuals through exercises that enhance the coordination between the pelvic floor and other muscles involved in urinary control. This training helps individuals regain control over their bladder function. 3 Physical therapists can provide valuable education on bladder habits and behavioral modifications. They can advise on appropriate fluid intake, scheduled voiding and strategies to avoid triggers that may worsen incontinence symptoms. Individuals can effectively manage and reduce urinary incontinence by adopting healthy bladder habits and making necessary lifestyle modifications. Talk to your PCP Don't have one? Find a Riverside doctor at RiversideHealthcare.org/ providers.

RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy ODQ1MTY=