Urinary incontinence is a common problem, affecting up to two-thirds of all women ages 45 years and older. There are several types of urinary incontinence, the most common being stress, urge or mixed incontinence. Several factors can contribute to incontinence. Some of these are medications, diet, fluid management, and pelvic floor strength. Some women have an overactive bladder (OAB). Urinary incontinence can range from a mild annoyance, to a serious problem that contributes to chronic infection, depression, social isolation and decline in quality of life.
Though urinary Incontinence is a common problem, it is commonly under-treated. At the Women’s Care Center, we offer a thorough and systematic approach to sorting out the issues that contribute to incontinence, and to offering the best solutions. Our program includes:
- Initial evaluation of incontinence to include history, diet, exercise, medications, and physical exam.
- Education on helpful exercises, dietary changes, fluid management and medication options.
- Referral to Pelvic Solutions Physical Therapy for biofeedback and pelvic floor muscle retraining.
- Referral to Urologic and Gynecological Surgeons for Urodynamic testing, consultation and surgery if needed.
- Five Valleys Urology
- Western Montana Clinic Gynecologists
- Follow up consultation visit.
- Staff:
- Marcia Hanks, CNM, APRN, WHNP
- Doria Keesling, CNM, APRN
- Linda Slaughter, PT
- How to reach us:
- Call 327-3057 for information or appointment
More information about Pelvic Solutions Physical Therapy Approach (at St. Patrick Wellness Center). Common treatment plan includes:
- Evaluation: muscle strength, Range of motion, posture, gait, body mechanics and activity. Optional EMG (electromyelogram) baseline established. (Recent pelvic examination required for EMG study.)
- Education: Anatomy of the pelvic floor and types of incontinence, Relaxation techniques,
Therapeutic exercise to increase pelvic floor strength, recruitment and duration of contraction, "Roll for Control" core exercise including Lower Extremity (LE) internal rotation with abduction and LE external rotation with abduction
- Evaluation and Treatment: EMG - provides immediate biofeedback of pelvic floor and abdominal muscle contractions during therapeutic exercise. Additional tools may include wedges, EMG sensors, ball and bands.
- The average person's Bladder Health Program at Pelvic Solutions consists of 5 - 6 visits.
Contact us at 406.329.5895