Overactive Bladder management

Overactive bladder (OAB) is a common condition that can significantly impact daily life, leading to frequent urination, urgency, and sometimes incontinence. Pelvic floor physiotherapy can be an effective treatment option for managing OAB symptoms.

Pelvic floor physiotherapists employ various techniques to help strengthen and coordinate the pelvic floor muscles. These muscles support the bladder and urethra and play a crucial role in urinary control. Here are some strategies used in pelvic floor physiotherapy for overactive bladder:

1. Muscle Training

• Kegel Exercises: These exercises involve the repeated contraction and relaxation of the pelvic floor muscles. A physiotherapist can guide patients in correctly identifying and engaging these muscles.

• Endurance Training: Gradually increasing the duration for which the pelvic floor muscles are contracted can enhance muscle control and stability.

2. Bladder Training

• Scheduled Voiding: This involves creating a timetable for urination to help retrain the bladder. Over time, individuals can increase the intervals between bathroom visits.

• Bladder calming strategies: Learning to resist the urge to urinate for a short period can help in managing urgency.

3. Education and Lifestyle Modifications

• Fluid Management: A physiotherapist can provide advice on optimal fluid intake and how certain beverages may affect bladder sensitivity.

• Dietary Adjustments: Identifying and modifying the intake of bladder irritants, such as caffeine or spicy foods, can sometimes alleviate symptoms.

4. Relaxation Techniques

Learning to relax the pelvic floor muscles is equally important. Techniques such as diaphragmatic breathing can help reduce tension and improve overall pelvic floor function, allowing for full bladder filling and emptying.