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Madonna Rehabilitation Hospitals

Continence

Bathroom use is a function of everyday life that many take for granted. The connection between the brain and bladder is also more complex than most people realize. A disruption can lead to a loss of bowel and bladder control, called incontinence.

Incontinence can stem from a variety of disorders, including:

  • Weak pelvic floor muscles
  • Pelvic or trunk misalignment
  • Pelvic floor injury or trauma
  • Brain injury
  • Stroke
  • Spinal Cord injury

A specially trained physical therapist will give a thorough evaluation and review the patient's medical history to begin an individualized treatment plan that may include the following:

  • Bathroom diary to identify patterns and behaviors
  • Assessment of the quality of muscle control at the pelvic floor
  • Use of a pelvic floor muscle sensor to determine the muscle control problem and improvement training
  • Education about incontinence, the pelvic floor and diet
  • Behavioral training to help patients recognize triggers and react appropriately