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Pelvic PT for
Bladder & Bowel Dysfunction 

Living with bladder or bowel dysfunction can quietly restrict your world—changing how you plan your day, what activities you participate in, and even how you feel about yourself. But the leaking, urgency, discomfort, and anxiety that come with these conditions aren't something you have to accept as permanent.

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Specialized pelvic floor physical therapy addresses the root causes of these issues, not just the symptoms. By focusing on the complex muscular system that supports your pelvic organs, we can help you rebuild control, reduce discomfort, and return to the spontaneous, confident life you deserve.

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Bladder Concerns:

  • Leaking urine when you cough, laugh, sneeze, or exercise

  • Sudden, urgent needs to urinate that are difficult to control

  • Frequent urination (more than 8-10 times daily) that interrupts your day or sleep

  • Incomplete emptying sensation after using the bathroom

  • "Just in case" bathroom trips before leaving home

  • Discomfort or pain with urination

  • Limiting fluid intake to avoid bathroom urgency

  • Anxiety about locating bathrooms when away from home

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Bowel Concerns:

  • Constipation or straining during bowel movements

  • Incomplete emptying after bowel movements

  • Fecal leakage or inability to control gas

  • Rectal pain or pressure

  • Painful bowel movements

  • Dependence on laxatives or enemas

  • Difficulty coordinating the muscles needed for bowel movements

Bladder & Bowel Frequently Asked Questions

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Is leaking urine normal as we age?

While urinary incontinence becomes more common with age, it is not an inevitable part of aging. The vast majority of incontinence cases can be improved or resolved with proper pelvic floor rehabilitation, regardless of your age.

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How many sessions will I need before seeing improvement in my bladder control?

Most patients report noticeable improvements within 4-6 sessions. For mild to moderate symptoms, many achieve their goals within 8-12 sessions. More complex cases may require longer treatment, but you should still see progressive improvement throughout.

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Can pelvic floor therapy help with constipation?

Absolutely. Many constipation issues stem from pelvic floor dysfunction, particularly difficulty with coordination of the muscles needed for complete bowel emptying. We address both the muscular components and provide education on other factors like positioning, dietary considerations, and habits that influence bowel function.

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Is it necessary to have internal examinations for bladder and bowel issues?

While internal assessment provides valuable information about your pelvic floor function, we always respect your comfort and preferences. We can begin with external techniques and education, and discuss the benefits of internal assessment when you're ready. Due to the often complex nature of pelvic floor dysfunction, there are many different areas we can focus on to achieve symptom reduction.

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Will I need to continue exercises forever to maintain results?

Most patients incorporate some maintenance exercises into their routine after completing formal therapy. However, these are typically simple, quick exercises that can be integrated into daily life. Once your muscles have learned proper coordination and strength, maintaining these gains becomes easier.

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Can you help with issues related to menopause and bladder function?

Yes. Hormonal changes during menopause can affect the tissues of the bladder and urethra. We address these changes through specific exercises, techniques to improve tissue health, and strategies to manage symptoms while improving overall function.

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