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Category: Therapy

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By TheraTouch Physio December 5, 2023 1 Comments Exercises, Insurance, Physio, Therapy, Uncategorized , , , , , , , , ,

Conquering Incontinence: Understanding Causes, Symptoms, and Effective Treatment Options

TheraTouch Physiotherapy Incontinence

Incontinence refers to the involuntary loss of urine or feces, leading to difficulties in controlling bladder or bowel movements. Here’s some information on the causes, symptoms, and treatments of incontinence:

Causes of Incontinence:

  1. Weak pelvic floor muscles: Weakened muscles that support the bladder and rectum can contribute to urinary or fecal incontinence.
  2. Urinary tract infections: Infections in the urinary tract can cause temporary incontinence.
  3. Nerve damage: Conditions such as diabetes, multiple sclerosis, or spinal cord injuries can disrupt nerve signals involved in bladder and bowel control.
  4. Hormonal changes: Fluctuations in hormone levels, such as during pregnancy or menopause, can affect bladder and bowel function.
  5. Prostate problems: In men, an enlarged prostate or prostate surgery can result in urinary incontinence.
  6. Medications: Certain medications, such as diuretics, sedatives, or muscle relaxants, may contribute to incontinence.
  7. Other factors: Chronic coughing, obesity, constipation, and certain lifestyle habits (e.g., excessive caffeine or alcohol intake) can also play a role in incontinence.

Symptoms of Incontinence:

  1. Urinary incontinence:
    1. Stress incontinence: Leakage of urine during activities that increase abdominal pressure, such as coughing, sneezing, or exercising.
    2. Urge incontinence refers to a sudden and strong urge to urinate, often followed by an involuntary release of urine.
    3. Overflow incontinence, on the other hand, involves the continuous or frequent dribbling of urine caused by an overfilled bladder that cannot fully empty.                                                            

  2. Fecal incontinence: 

    1. Involuntary passage of stool or inability to control bowel movements.
    2. Difficulty sensing the need to defecate or lack of awareness of bowel movements.
    3. Leaking of small amounts of stool or complete loss of bowel control.

Treatments for Incontinence:

  1. Lifestyle modifications:
    1. Pelvic floor Physiotherapy: Pelvic Floor exercises strengthening the pelvic floor muscles through exercises like Kegels to improve bladder and bowel control                 
    2. Fluid and diet management: Adjusting fluid intake and dietary habits to avoid bladder irritants and regulate bowel movements.
    3. Weight management: Maintaining a healthy weight to reduce pressure on the bladder and pelvic floor muscles.
  2. Bladder training: Techniques to gradually increase the time between urination and improve bladder control.
  3. Medications:
    1. Anticholinergics: Medications that relax the bladder muscle and reduce urinary urgency and frequency.
    2. Topical creams: Creams or ointments that can help treat skin irritation caused by incontinence.
  4. Medical devices:
    1. Pessary: A small device inserted into the vagina to support the bladder or rectum.
    2. Catheters: Thin tubes used to drain urine from the bladder.
  5. Nerve stimulation: Electrical stimulation of the nerves involved in bladder and bowel control to improve function and reduce incontinence.
  6. Surgery: In certain cases, surgical interventions may be recommended to treat underlying anatomical or functional issues causing incontinence.

    Pelvic Floor Physiotherapy is an effective solution for alleviating incontinence symptoms, addressing persistent conditions, and expediting the healing process. Licensed Pelvic Floor Physiotherapists evaluate your specific condition and provide personalized recommendations or therapies to help you manage your  incontinence symptom effectively

By TheraTouch Physio June 24, 2023 0 Comments Exercises, Insurance, Physio, Therapy , , , , , , , , ,

Finding Relief: Effective Treatments for Chronic Pelvic Pain

Chronic pelvic pain is a persistent pain in the lower abdomen and pelvis that lasts for at least six months. Here’s some information on the causes, symptoms, and treatments of chronic pelvic pain:

Causes of Chronic Pelvic Pain:

  1. Gynecological conditions: Conditions such as endometriosis, adenomyosis, pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), ovarian cysts, or uterine fibroids can contribute to chronic pelvic pain.
  2. Urological conditions: Conditions like interstitial cystitis, urinary tract infections (UTIs), or bladder disorders can cause pelvic pain.
  3. Gastrointestinal disorders: Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), or pelvic floor dysfunction can lead to pelvic pain.
  4. Musculoskeletal issues: Conditions affecting the muscles, joints, or ligaments in the pelvic area, such as pelvic floor muscle dysfunction or pelvic joint instability, can be a source of pain.
  5. Nervous system disorders: Nerve conditions like pudendal neuralgia or pelvic neuralgia can cause chronic pelvic pain.
  6. Psychological factors: Emotional stress, anxiety, or a history of trauma can contribute to or worsen chronic pelvic pain.

Symptoms of Chronic Pelvic Pain:

  1. Persistent pelvic pain: Dull, aching, or sharp pain in the lower abdomen or pelvis that lasts for an extended period.
  2. Pain during intercourse: Pain or discomfort during sexual intercourse, known as dyspareunia.
  3. Menstrual pain: Increased pain during menstruation, known as dysmenorrhea.
  4. Urinary or bowel symptoms: Urinary urgency, frequency, or pain during urination, as well as bowel changes like constipation or diarrhea.
  5. Fatigue and sleep disturbances: Chronic pelvic pain can lead to fatigue and disrupted sleep patterns.
  6. Emotional distress: Anxiety, depression, or mood changes may accompany chronic pelvic pain.

Treatments for Chronic Pelvic Pain:

  1. Medications: Pain relievers, hormonal treatments, or muscle relaxants may be prescribed to manage pain and address underlying conditions.
  2. Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy: Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy can help relax and strengthen the pelvic floor muscles, improving symptoms.
  3. Counseling or psychotherapy: Psychological support and therapy can help individuals cope with the emotional aspects of chronic pelvic pain.
  4. Nerve blocks: Injection of anesthetic or steroids into specific nerves may provide temporary relief from pain.
  5. Trigger point injections: Injecting medication into trigger points or areas of muscle tension can help alleviate pain.
  6. Complementary therapies: Techniques such as acupuncture, heat therapy, or relaxation exercises may offer relief for some individuals.
  7. Surgical intervention: In some cases, surgery may be necessary to address underlying gynecological or urological conditions causing chronic pelvic pain.
  8. Lifestyle changes: Adopting healthy lifestyle habits, managing stress, and practicing relaxation techniques can contribute to symptom management.

Pelvic Floor Physiotherapy is an effective solution for alleviating Chronic Pelvic Pain, addressing persistent conditions, and expediting the healing process. Your licensed physiotherapists evaluate your specific condition and provide personalized recommendations or therapies to help you manage your Chronic Pelvic Pain effectively.

Table of Contents

  1. Introduction
  2. Causes of Chronic Pelvic Pain

2.1 Gynecological conditions

2.2 Urological conditions

2.3 Gastrointestinal disorders

2.4 Musculoskeletal issues

2.5 Nervous system disorders

2.6 Psychological Factors

  • Symptoms of Chronic Pelvic Pain

3.1 Persistent or Recurrent Pain

3.2 Pain during intercourse

3.3 Menstrual pain

3.4 Urinary or bowel symptoms

3.5 Fatigue and Sleep Disturbances

3.6 Emotional distress

  • Treatment Options for Chronic Pelvic Pain

4.1 Medications

4.2 Physical Therapy

4.3 Counseling or psychotherapy

4.4 Nerve Blocks

4.5 Trigger Point Injections

4.6 Complementary therapies

4.7 Surgical Interventions

4.8 Lifestyle Modifications

  • Conclusion
By TheraTouch Physio June 14, 2023 0 Comments Exercises, Insurance, Physio, Therapy , , , , , , , , , ,

Understanding Pelvic Organ Prolapse: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options

Pelvic organ prolapse
TheraTouch Physiotherapy prolapse

Pelvic organ prolapse occurs when one or more of the pelvic organs, such as the uterus, bladder, or rectum, descend and bulge into the vaginal wall. This condition is commonly caused by weakened or damaged pelvic floor muscles and ligaments that support the organs. Here are some causes, symptoms, and treatments of pelvic organ prolapse:

Causes of Pelvic organ prolapse:

  1. Pregnancy and childbirth: The process of pregnancy and vaginal delivery can stretch and weaken the pelvic floor muscles and tissues, leading to prolapse.
  2. Aging: As women age, the pelvic floor muscles naturally weaken, making them more susceptible to prolapse.
  3. Hormonal changes: Decreased estrogen levels during menopause can contribute to the weakening of pelvic floor muscles.
  4. Chronic constipation: Straining during bowel movements over a long period can weaken the pelvic floor and contribute to prolapse.
  5. Obesity: Excess weight can put increased pressure on the pelvic organs, leading to prolapse.
  6. Chronic coughing: Conditions like chronic bronchitis or asthma that cause persistent coughing can strain the pelvic floor muscles and contribute to prolapse.

Symptoms of Pelvic organ prolapse:

  1. Sensation of a bulge or pressure in the vagina.
  2. Feeling of heaviness or pulling in the pelvis.
  3. Pain or discomfort during sexual intercourse.
  4. Backache or lower abdominal pain.
  5. Urinary problems like frequent urination, urgency, or incontinence.
  6. Bowel movement difficulties or a sensation of incomplete emptying.
  7. Vaginal bleeding or discharge.

Treatments for Pelvic Organ Prolapse:

  1. Pelvic Floor Physiotherapy: Pelvic floor exercises such as Kegel exercises can help strengthen the pelvic floor muscles and improve symptoms.
  2. Lifestyle modifications: Maintaining a healthy weight, avoiding heavy lifting, and treating constipation or chronic coughing can reduce the risk of prolapse.
  3. Vaginal pessary: A removable device inserted into the vagina to provide support for the prolapsed organs.
  4. Hormone replacement therapy: Estrogen therapy may help improve the strength and elasticity of the pelvic tissues.
  5. Surgery: In severe cases, surgery may be recommended to repair the prolapse and provide support to the pelvic organs. There are different surgical techniques available depending on the specific prolapse and individual factors.

Pelvic Floor Physiotherapy is an effective solution for alleviating Pelvic organ prolapse symptoms, addressing persistent conditions, and expediting the healing process. Your licensed physiotherapists evaluate your specific condition and provide personalized recommendations or therapies to help you manage your Pelvic organ prolapse symptoms effectively

Table of Contents:

  1. Introduction
  2. Causes of Pelvic Organ Prolapse

2.1 Pregnancy and Childbirth

2.2 Aging

2.3 Hormonal Changes

2.4 Chronic Constipation

2.5 Obesity

2.6 Chronic Coughing

  • Symptoms of Pelvic Organ Prolapse

3.1 Sensation of a Bulge or Pressure

3.2 Feeling of Heaviness or Pulling

3.3 Pain or Discomfort During Intercourse

3.4 Backache or Lower Abdominal Pain

3.5 Urinary Problems

3.6 Bowel Movement Difficulties

3.7 Vaginal Bleeding or Discharge

  • Treatments for Pelvic Organ Prolapse

4.1 Pelvic Floor Physiotherapy

4.2 Lifestyle Modifications

4.3 Vaginal Pessary

4.4 Hormone Replacement Therapy

4.5 Surgery

  • Conclusion
By TheraTouch Physio June 14, 2023 0 Comments Exercises, Insurance, Physio, Sporting, Therapy, Uncategorized , , , , , , ,

Understanding Rotator Cuff Injury: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options

Rotator Cuff Injury

Rotator cuff injuries are a common source of shoulder pain and can significantly impact daily activities and overall quality of life. Whether you’re an athlete or someone who engages in repetitive overhead motions, it’s essential to understand the causes, symptoms, and available treatments for rotator cuff injuries. In this blog post, we’ll delve into the details of rotator cuff injuries, helping you gain valuable insights to manage and recover from this condition effectively.

Causes of Rotator Cuff Injuries

  1. Overuse and repetitive motions: Learn how repetitive overhead activities, such as throwing, lifting, or painting, can lead to strain and gradual wear and tear on the rotator cuff tendons.
  2. Traumatic injuries: Discover how a sudden fall, direct impact, or forceful pulling of the shoulder can result in acute rotator cuff tears.
  3. Age-related degeneration: Understand the role of aging in the development of rotator cuff injuries and how changes in tendon quality and blood supply can increase the risk.

Symptoms of Rotator Cuff Injuries

  1. Shoulder pain and tenderness: Explore the characteristic pain experienced with rotator cuff injuries, which may worsen during specific movements or at night.
  2. Weakness and limited range of motion: Learn how rotator cuff injuries can cause weakness and difficulty in performing everyday tasks like lifting objects or reaching overhead.
  3. Clicking or popping sensations: Discover the significance of clicking or popping sounds during shoulder movements and their association with rotator cuff injuries.

Effective Treatments for Rotator Cuff Injuries

  1. Non-surgical treatments: Explore conservative approaches such as rest, ice therapy, physical therapy exercises, and the use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) to reduce pain and inflammation. Cortisone shots can help reduce pain, swelling, and inflammation in the shoulder.
  2. Surgical options: Understand when surgical intervention may be necessary, the different surgical techniques available, and the expected recovery process.
  3. Physical therapy Rehabilitation and post-treatment care: Learn about the importance of post-treatment rehabilitation programs to restore shoulder strength, flexibility, and function.

Rotator cuff injuries can be debilitating, but with proper understanding and timely intervention, individuals can recover and regain their shoulder function. If you suspect a rotator cuff injury, it’s crucial to seek medical attention for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment plan. Remember, early detection and appropriate care are key to a successful recovery. By following the recommended treatments and engaging in rehabilitation, you can take the necessary steps toward healing and restoring your shoulder health.

Physiotherapy is an effective solution for treating Rotator cuff injuries, addressing persistent conditions, and expediting the healing process. Your licensed physiotherapists evaluate your specific condition and provide personalized recommendations or therapies to help you manage your Rotator cuff injury effectively

Table of Contents:

  1. Introduction
  2. Causes of Rotator Cuff Injuries

2.1 Overuse and repetitive motions

2.2 Traumatic events

2.3 Age-related degeneration

  1. Symptoms of Rotator Cuff Injuries

3.1 Shoulder pain and tenderness

3.2 Weakness and limited range of motion

3.3 Audible sensations

  1. Effective Treatments for Rotator Cuff Injuries

4.1 Non-surgical approaches

4.2 Surgical options

4.3 Rehabilitation and post-treatment care

  1. Conclusion

TheraTouch Physio Rotator Cuff Shoulder Pain
By TheraTouch Physio June 6, 2023 0 Comments Exercises, Insurance, Physio, Therapy, Uncategorized , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

How Pelvic Floor Physiotherapy Supports Pregnancy and Postpartum Health 

Pregnancy and Postpartum pelvic physiotherapy

Pregnancy and the postpartum period are transformative experiences that bring joy and challenges to women’s lives. During this time, the pelvic floor muscles undergo significant changes and may require special attention and care. Pelvic floor physiotherapy offers invaluable support to empower women throughout their pregnancy and postpartum journey. In this blog post, we will explore how pelvic floor physiotherapy can help you feel empowered, confident, and in control during this transformative phase of your life. 

  1. Preparing for Pregnancy: Pelvic floor physiotherapy can be beneficial even before conception. By addressing any existing pelvic floor issues or imbalances, such as weak muscles or pelvic pain, you can start your pregnancy journey on a healthier foundation. A pelvic floor assessment and targeted exercises can help strengthen your pelvic floor muscles, optimize their function, and promote better bladder control. 
  2. Supporting Pregnancy: During pregnancy, the pelvic floor experiences increased strain due to the growing baby, hormonal changes, and the weight of the uterus. Pelvic floor physiotherapy can help manage common pregnancy-related issues such as back pain, pelvic girdle pain, and incontinence. A physiotherapist can provide exercises and techniques to strengthen the pelvic floor muscles, promote better posture, and enhance overall pelvic stability, empowering you to navigate the physical demands of pregnancy with greater comfort and confidence. 
  3. Preparing for Labor and Delivery: Pelvic floor physiotherapy plays a vital role in preparing for labor and delivery. Through specialized exercises and techniques, you can learn to relax and control your pelvic floor muscles, facilitating the birthing process. A physiotherapist can guide you in practicing perineal massage and breathing techniques to reduce the risk of perineal tears and promote more efficient labor. 
  4. Postpartum Recovery: After giving birth, your body undergoes a period of healing and adjustment. Pelvic floor physiotherapy is instrumental in supporting your postpartum recovery. A thorough assessment can identify any pelvic floor dysfunctions, such as weakened muscles or pelvic organ prolapse. With personalized exercises and techniques, you can regain strength, restore pelvic floor function, and address any issues like urinary incontinence, back pain or pain during intercourse. By nurturing your pelvic floor health, you can enhance your overall well-being and regain confidence in your body. 
  5. Addressing Mental and Emotional Well-being: Pelvic floor physiotherapy also acknowledges the emotional and psychological aspects of pregnancy and postpartum. Your physiotherapist can provide guidance and support, addressing any concerns or anxieties you may have regarding your pelvic floor health. By fostering an open and supportive environment, pelvic floor physiotherapy empowers you to take an active role in your well-being and encourages a positive mindset throughout your journey. 

In conclusion, Pelvic floor physiotherapy is an invaluable resource for women during pregnancy and postpartum. Promoting physical strength, providing valuable support, and addressing emotional well-being, empowers you to embrace this transformative phase of life with confidence and resilience. If you are pregnant or have recently given birth, consider seeking the guidance of a qualified pelvic floor physiotherapist who can tailor a program to meet your unique needs. Embrace the power of pelvic floor physiotherapy and unlock your potential to thrive during this remarkable time. 

Table of Contents

  1. Introduction
  2. Preparing for Pregnancy
  3. Supporting Pregnancy
  4. Preparing for Labor and Delivery
  5. Postpartum Recovery
  6. Addressing Mental and Emotional Well-being
  7. Conclusion
  8. Introduction