New Treatment for Stress Incontinence Offers Hope for Women
Stress incontinence, the involuntary leakage of urine, affects 1 in 3 women and is often caused by weak pelvic floor muscles. Traditionally, doctors have recommended Kegel exercises to strengthen these muscles. However, recent research suggests that Kegels may not always be the best treatment and can even make leaks worse.
Lauren Garges, a certified physical therapist specializing in pelvic floor rehabilitation, explains that stress incontinence can be caused by either weak or tight pelvic floor muscles. Kegels are effective for muscle weakness but can be harmful for muscle tightness. Tight muscles can become overworked and lead to muscle fatigue, making leaks more likely.
For women like PeggySue Wells, 65, who struggled with stress incontinence after giving birth, Kegels were not effective. After trying different strategies, she turned to her doctor for a recommendation and was introduced to pelvic floor massage therapy. This therapy involves manually manipulating and massaging the muscles and tissues of the pelvic floor to improve function and alleviate tension.
Wells decided to give pelvic floor massage therapy a try before considering surgery. During her sessions, her therapist identified tender areas and muscle knots, working to relieve tension and reposition her pelvic organs. Within six sessions, her incontinence completely disappeared, allowing her to live her life without worry.
Garges advises women to seek out a board-certified physical therapist with additional accreditation as a pelvic floor clinical specialist to determine if pelvic floor massage therapy is the right option. Most insurances cover this therapy, but it’s important to check with your provider before booking an appointment.
Pelvic floor massage therapy offers hope for women struggling with stress incontinence. By addressing muscle tightness, this treatment can provide relief and allow women to regain control of their lives. With the right therapist, women can find a solution that doesn’t involve surgery and offers near-instantaneous results.