79% of pregnant women who experience lower back pain experience urinary incontinence
Pelvic floor exercises reduce lower back pain and incontinence for pregnant women
During pregnancy, pain and discomfort are not uncommon, especially pain in the lower back and pelvic area. In some cases, lower back pain (LBP) and sacroiliac joint Pain (SI) can cause, or are symptoms of, urinary incontinence (UI). In fact, 79% of women who experience LBP simultaneously experience UI. However, research has shown that “performing stabilization exercises with a focus on the pelvic floor” reduced LBP and lessened the symptoms of UI in women.1 Here, at Saint Alphonsus Rehabilitation Services, we strive to help you regain control of your muscles and body. In order to reduce the symptoms of UI, STARS has physical therapists that are trained in pelvic floor therapy.
Biofeedback therapy may be effective to treat incontinence
The pelvic floor can be a sensitive area, in order to ensure your comfort and safety, each pelvic floor therapy session will take place in a private room with one of our highly skilled physical therapists. During each appointment, the goal of the therapist is to retrain your muscles and brain to work together in order to prevent UI and minimize LPB and SI pain. Our therapists are trained to perform biofeedback therapy which retrains the brain and pelvic muscles to work together, tightening and relaxing the pelvic floor muscles. Around 90% of patients, who have struggled with UI and bowl control and tried biofeedback therapy, have found it to be very successful.
During your appointments, STARS therapists may also work on strengthening the pelvic floor and sacroiliac joint. Both areas endure strain as the body makes room for the baby. Ligaments in the area will stretch and loosen, so strength exercises and pelvic belts can help to ease the pain and tension. Stretching and relaxing your back muscles may also be a part of your appointments. Lower back pain is often caused by tight and tense muscles, by relieving the area, any pain felt will begin to decrease.
Experiencing pain and discomfort during pregnancy is normal. However, Saint Alphonsus Rehabilitation Services is here to help you enjoy your pregnancy, and the following weeks, with less lower back and SI pain, as well as reduced urinary incontinence symptoms.
