Bladder Issues: Interstitial Cystitis
According to the Interstitial Cystitis Association, 3 to 8 million women and 1 to 4 million men in the United States may have interstitial cystitis (IC). IC is also known as painful bladder syndrome, bladder pain syndrome, or hypersensitive bladder syndrome.
The cause of IC is unknown. There are many triggers that may contribute to IC. This includes: bladder trauma from pelvic surgery, pelvic floor dysfunction, autoimmune disease, bladder distension, bacterial infection, spinal cord injury, and hypersensitivity of pelvic nerves.
Many people with IC experience day and/or night urinary frequency or urinary urgency. Individuals may also experience abdominal, urethral, or genital pain, and pain with intercourse.
An important thing you can do to minimize your symptoms is to figure out what your triggers are. This may include food or drink. An elimination diet for a period of time may be the solution.
Other things that may cause a flare up in symptoms include stress, certain types of exercise, intercourse, prolonged sitting, hormonal changes, and certain vitamins or supplements. Meditation, restorative yoga or other relaxation techniques may be helpful in reducing symptoms during flare ups.
Physical therapy can be a useful tool in treating IC when the pelvic floor muscles are tight and/or weak. At Body Harmony Physical Therapy, our specialist physical therapy clinicians will evaluate and treat your IC using a variety of interventions including manual therapy, neuromuscular re-education, myofascial release techniques, stretching, biofeedback, postural training, and breathing techniques. We will also educate you so you have a better understanding of this condition which may improve self management skills. Please contact us at 212-233-9494 and speak to a professional if you have any more questions.
Written by: Roseanne Schoen, DPT
Edited by: Keely Faridi, PT
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