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Incontinence and the Benefits of Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy
By Megan Van Gorp, DPT, Osceola Regional Health Center
Don’t let incontinence hold you back from fully enjoying life – missing out on precious moments because of bladder leaks is something no one should have to experience.
Even as a pelvic health physical therapist, I wasn’t immune. After the birth of my first child, I vividly remember trying to run and play with my nephews and niece. I barely made it several yards before I felt the leakage start. I had done ‘all the right things’ during pregnancy, but postpartum recovery is humbling. I was frustrated and embarrassed – and I do this for a living! But it was also a powerful reminder of why this work matters. With consistency and compassion for my healing body, I used the same pelvic floor therapy principles I teach my patients. And yes—it worked. I got back to playing without leaks, and more importantly, I regained trust in my body.”
Incontinence is common—but not normal—and it’s treatable. One of the most effective, non-invasive solutions is pelvic floor physical therapy (PFPT). PFPT helps strengthen, relax, and retrain the pelvic floor muscles that support the bladder, bowel, and reproductive organs.
PFPT Can Help With:
- Bladder leaks from sneezing, coughing, or exercise
- Frequent or urgent urination
- Incomplete emptying of the bladder or bowels
- Pelvic pain or pain with intercourse
- Chronic constipation (in adults and children)
- Bedwetting or accidents in children
Treatment may include exercises, manual therapy, posture and breathing work, education and more—all customized to your needs. PFPT helps improve muscle strength and coordination, relieve pain, and restore bowel and bladder control.
If you or your child is struggling with incontinence or pelvic floor issues, talk to your healthcare provider. Don’t wait—early treatment can lead to better outcomes and a better quality of life. Call 712-754-5368 to schedule an appointment with me.
Please join me on September 18 at noon to learn more about the importance of pelvic health. I will be leading a free lunch and learn in the Osceola Regional Health Center Multi-purpose room. Please reserve your lunch online at www.osceolarhc.org/lunchlearn or call 712-754-5338.