Stress urinary incontinence (SUI) can have a profound impact on daily life, from limiting physical activities to affecting confidence and emotional well-being. While many people are aware of Kegel exercises, fewer know about pelvic floor physiotherapy, a specialised treatment that can significantly improve bladder control. This blog explores what pelvic floor physiotherapy is, how it works, and why it’s an essential tool for managing SUI.
What is Pelvic Floor Physiotherapy?
Pelvic floor physiotherapy is a type of physical therapy focused on strengthening and rehabilitating the muscles, ligaments, and connective tissues that support the bladder, uterus, and bowel. A trained physiotherapist assesses pelvic floor function and creates a personalised treatment plan to improve muscle strength, coordination, and flexibility.
How Does Pelvic Floor Physiotherapy Help with SUI?
✅ Muscle Strengthening:
Weak pelvic floor muscles are a common cause of SUI. Physiotherapy helps target and strengthen these muscles, improving their ability to support the bladder during activities like coughing, laughing, or exercising.
✅ Improved Coordination:
It’s not just about strength—coordinating muscle contractions correctly at the right time (like before sneezing) is equally important. Physiotherapy helps retrain this muscle timing.
✅ Posture and Core Integration:
Pelvic floor health is closely connected to overall posture and core strength. Physiotherapists often teach proper posture and core activation techniques to reduce pressure on the bladder.
✅ Biofeedback and Real-Time Monitoring:
Some physiotherapists use biofeedback devices to help patients “see” how well they are contracting their pelvic floor muscles, offering immediate feedback and improving technique.
What to Expect During a Pelvic Floor Physiotherapy Session
- Assessment: A comprehensive evaluation, including medical history, symptoms, and physical examination (internal and/or external).
- Exercise Training: Teaching correct Kegel techniques, often using real-time biofeedback.
- Manual Therapy: If necessary, hands-on techniques to release muscle tension or improve muscle activation.
- Bladder Training: Guidance on managing bladder habits, fluid intake, and urgency control.
- Lifestyle Advice: Recommendations for weight management, exercise, and diet to support bladder health.
Benefits Beyond Incontinence
Pelvic floor physiotherapy can also:
- Improve sexual function.
- Prevent prolapse.
- Enhance postpartum recovery.
- Reduce pelvic pain.
Pelvic floor physiotherapy is a highly effective, non-invasive approach to treating stress urinary incontinence. Whether used alone or alongside other treatments, it helps people regain bladder control, confidence, and quality of life. If you experience SUI, consulting a pelvic floor physiotherapist could be a life-changing step.