Pelvic Floor Dysfunction

How Physiotherapy Can Help

Most cases of incontinence, and bladder or bowel weakness, can be improved with specialist physiotherapy. With over 20 years of experience in pelvic floor muscle physiotherapy, I offer a personalised continence programme which examines the possible causes of the problem and offers different treatment options.

 

Before treatment commences

Each patient is individually assessed to determine whether physiotherapy is appropriate. This includes a detailed history of medical, surgical, lifestyle and sporting activities.

The various treatment options are fully discussed at all stages and, depending on the type of incontinence, may include bladder training, pelvic floor exercises, and biofeedback and or muscle stimulation if the pelvic floor muscles are particularly weak. Often pelvic floor muscle weakness manifests itself in other pelvic muscles in the body and so a full examination of all the surrounding structures is sometimes indicated.


Progression of treatment

After the initial visit, the patient returns at regular intervals depending on the rate of progress and there is ample opportunity to discuss the treatment at every stage. In addition, keeping a symptom diary between treatment sessions is helpful to both the physiotherapist and the patient.

 

Referral options

There are many ways to be referred for treatment; self-referral or via your GP or consultant. All insurance companies ask for a doctor’s referral prior to your first consultation and your preferred medical practitioner will be kept fully informed of your progress.

On average most patients require between 6-10 sessions as pelvic floor muscles can take approximately 15 to 20 weeks to return to full strength.