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.
Frequently Asked Questions
Most patients require between 6 to 10 clinical sessions over 15 to 20 weeks. Pelvic floor muscles require progressive retraining, and progress is continuously evaluated at each visit.
No, self-referral is welcome. However, if you are claiming through private medical insurance, most insurers require a GP or specialist consultant referral prior to your first appointment.
Diane will take a detailed medical history, discuss your symptoms, lifestyle, and goals, and conduct a gentle physical assessment in a private consultation room. All treatment options will be explained clearly before starting.
Yes. Pelvic floor physiotherapy is highly effective following post-natal childbirth recovery as well as pre- and post-prostate surgery for men to restore muscle tone and bladder/bowel control.