The doctors at Valewood Clinic in Mulgrave, can assist you with the treatment of incontinence.
Incontinence is often talked about as ‘bladder weakness’ and refers to the involuntary passing of urine or faeces, often due to pelvic muscle weakness. The team can provide you with a treatment program or if required, a referral for further diagnosis of the issue.
Understanding Incontinence and Its Impact
Incontinence is the loss of control of your bladder and bowel. 1 in 4 Australians over the age of 15, experience incontinence. It can affect both women and men, and all age groups. There is a misconception that incontinence affects mostly women after childbirth, or much older people in their twilight years. Many younger men suffer from this condition too, and young women who have not had children, can also be impacted.
Incontinence can cause discomfort, embarrassment, lifestyle restrictions and social isolation. It’s important to know that you can recover from incontinence and that treatment options are available to help. f you need help with this health issue, contact the clinic and book an appointment today.
Who is at Risk of Incontinence?
Incontinence affects people of all ages, physical abilities and backgrounds.
Some risk factors are more commonly linked to incontinence :
- Pregnancy;
- Obesity;
- Menopause;
- Diabetes;
- Surgery eg hysterectomy and prostatectomy;
- Some medications; and
- Reduced mobility.
If you fall into any of these risk categories and have identified or have concerns about bladder or bowel control, make a booking at Valewood Clinic and the caring medical team are ready to support you.
Incontinence Treatment Options for both Men and Women
There are a number of ways that incontinence can be prevented, or in many instances at least reduced:
- Healthy eating and staying active play key roles in supporting bladder and bowel function.
- Drinking sufficient fluids and eating plenty of fibre will assist.
- Lead a balanced lifestyle, which includes maintaining a healthy body weight.
- Practice good toilet habits.
- Avoid constipation as this may make the situation worse.
- Get into the correct relaxed sitting position on the toilet.
- Go to the toilet when you get the urge to open your bowels.
- Additional focused exercise routines can also assist.
- Pilates and Yoga can play a key role in strengthening the pelvic floor muscles.
- You could visit the Physio to seek out an exercise program that you can work with at home.
- You can also do your own exercises in the privacy of your home. Information is available at the Continence Foundation of Australia
Valewood’s Pelvic Floor Rehabilitation Chair
At the Clinic, we offer a simple and effective treatment for urinary incontinence.
Known as the ‘Wave Brilliance Chair’, it uses highly focused pulsed magnetic waves to stimulate and strengthen your pelvic muscles.
You can sit in the chair fully clothed, reading a book and let the chair help you. Each session in this therapy chair lasts approximately 20 minutes.
Take advantage of this non-invasive and pain-free therapy, and book a doctor’s appointment with the Reception team. Following this consultation, the doctor will recommend if this treatment is suitable for you.
Can Surgery influence your Pelvic Muscles?
Post surgery, particularly for men who have had prostate surgery, can result in many experiencing incontinence. There are a number of treatments available. Seek medical advice from the Valewood doctors to regain your confidence and control.
Women also often experience incontinence following pregnancy or a hysterectomy. Again the team at Valewood will work with you to identify the best course of treatment.
At Valewood, the doctors focus on compassionate care. Located conveniently in Mulgrave, the team works to address each patient’s unique needs. We’ll support you every step of the way.
Call us on (03) 9560 6655 to book an appointment.
