If you have urinary incontinence -- the involuntary loss of bladder control that results in leakage of urine -- you're not alone. Whether mild or severe, the problem affects countless women and men, yet few seek help or even mention it to their doctors. "It's too embarrassing," they may think, or "It's just part of aging and nothing can be done anyway." They cut back on many of the activities they used to enjoy, setting the stage for frustration, isolation, even depression. It's no way to live.
There is something that can be done, and it doesn't involve surgery or medication.
First, the facts:
- 13 million Americans, including 11 million women, have urinary incontinence
- 7 in 10 women have urinary leakage
- 80% of all cases can be cured or improved
- 7 to 9 years is the average length of time people wait before they seek help
What causes urinary incontinence?
How can the MeritCare Physical Therapy Continence Program help?
For more information
What causes urinary incontinence?
The causes and types of urinary incontinence are many, which is why it's important to first contact your doctor. The MeritCare Physical Therapy Continence Program has been the right treatment avenue for many, and your doctor will know if it's right for you.
Causes of urinary incontinence include:
- Muscle weakness
- Hormonal changes
- Infection
- Chronic cough
- Repetitive lifting
- Pregnancy and childbirth
- Surgery
- Obesity
- Poor bladder habits
- Diseases such as diabetes, multiple sclerosis and muscular dystrophy
One of the most common causes of urinary incontinence is weak pelvic floor muscles — the muscles that control bladder function. When they're weak, leakage can result.
Conservative care through pelvic floor strengthening, education in bladder health, and bladder training, along with good patient compliance can prove to be beneficial.
How can the MeritCare Physical Therapy Continence Program help?
The MeritCare Physical Therapy Continence Program offers a conservative, yet effective, approach to solving your incontinence problem. Specially trained physical therapists work with you on an individual basis to help you regain bladder control. Components of the program include:
- Simple, effective exercises to help strengthen the pelvic floor muscles. These exercises, which can be done at home, play a major role in the success of the program.
- Biofeedback (a painless technique for learning to control pelvic floor muscles)
- Education on lifestyle changes to decrease bladder irritability
- Keeping a bladder diary to aid in re-training.
- Relaxation and breathing techniques
Physical therapists involved in this program have worked with men and women of all ages. Sensitive, well-informed and appropriately trained, they empower individuals with the knowledge and skills needed to effectively self-manage the problem ...and once again enjoy life.
Take the first step and talk to your doctor
Whether you experience minor or major episodes of involuntary urine loss, you now have hope of regaining bladder control without surgery or medication. Speak to your doctor about a referral to the MeritCare Physical Therapy Continence Program. Help is also available for people who experience bowel incontinence.
For more information...
For more information about the MeritCare Physical Therapy Continence Program, please call the following MeritCare locations. Your questions will be handled respectfully and confidentially.
MeritCare Southpointe in Fargo
701-234-8700
MeritCare Bemidji
218-759-5450
Thanks to MeritCare Foundation
The MeritCare Physical Therapy Continence Program was funded in part with a grant from
MeritCare Foundation. The Foundation's support provided staff education, equipment and educational materials.
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