“I didn’t know you could get physiotherapy for incontinence”

​You sure can (for both women and men, incidentally). But that’s not all that women’s health physio involves. The practice can take place privately or in the hospital system, where physiotherapists see women before and after gynaecological surgery or pregnancy for pain, pelvic floor strengthening, advice during ante-natal classes and management of issues such as abdominal muscle separation.

Treatments can consist of anything from massage, joint mobilisations and acupuncture, to taping and provision of splints. I’ve treated more sacro-iliac joint dysfunctions (often caused by extra weight and ligament softening) during pregnancy than I can remember. Clinical Pilates is also a useful tool for treating many physical women’s health issues. Women have specific issues throughout our life cycles, from child birth to osteoporosis (‘brittle bone disease’) and I am passionate about the role of physiotherapy and holistic healthcare in treating these.

For more specialised care of incontinence, you may need an internal examination, which is not offered by all physiotherapists. But now you know it exists, why not contact your local friendly physiotherapist to ask if they do offer incontinence assessment and management for you or a loved one in need?