Bladder prolapse is a common condition that occurs when the bladder descends into space it should not be in due to weakened pelvic floor muscles. While bladder prolapse is more common in women than in men, it can happen to anybody.
While some cases of bladder prolapse require surgery to correct, pelvic floor physical therapy can play an important role in avoiding surgery as well as supporting the body following a surgery.
Pelvic floor physical therapy can reverse a mild bladder prolapse
Bladder prolapses are graded from 1 through 4. A grade 1 or grade 2 prolapse can often be reversed through pelvic floor physical therapy, while a grade 3 prolapse can be treated so that the condition does not continue to worsen.
Strengthening the pelvic floor muscles can help lift the bladder back into its original position; this can slow down (or stop!) prolapse progression and avoid surgery.
A pelvic floor physical therapist may use biofeedback, manual therapy, and a personalized exercise program to improve muscle tone and bladder support. Many exercises will be done at home, allowing the patient to be an active part of their healing journey.
When surgery is needed…physical therapy can ease recovery
For those suffering from a grade 4 bladder prolapse, a bladder lift may be necessary to restore proper position and function. While surgery corrects the structural issue, weak pelvic floor muscles will continue to cause discomfort and dysfunction.
Pelvic floor physical therapy is an invaluable tool following a bladder surgery. Strengthening the pelvic floor can help patients regain bladder control, improve bladder function, and reduce the risk of a future prolapse.
Less pain, better function, and better outcomes
After bladder surgery, some patients will experience pelvic pain or tightness in the muscles. Pelvic floor physical therapy uses manual techniques and stretching/strengthening exercises to relieve tension, improve circulation, and promote healing.
Pelvic floor physical therapy is also helpful for improving bladder control, which may suffer after a bladder surgery. Strengthening the pelvic floor improved sphincter control and reduces leakage. In some cases, the physical therapist may teach the patient behavioral techniques to help retrain the bladder for best function.
Even after a bladder lift, there is a chance of future problems. A prolapse can reoccur if the muscles holding the bladder in place are not strong enough to do their job. Pelvic floor physical therapy can improve comfort and overall quality of life, and can help avoid future prolapse recurrence.
Learn more about pelvic floor physical therapy for bladder prolapse
Pelvic floor physical therapy is invaluable for those suffering from bladder prolapse or recovering from bladder lift surgery. It can reverse a mild to moderate prolapse, and reduce pain and improve function after bladder surgery, while improving overall bladder health.
Ready to learn more about how pelvic floor physical therapy can support your wellbeing? Contact Body Restoration Physical Therapy of Roslyn Heights, New York for more information or to schedule an appointment.