Incontinence is said to affect as much as 25 percent of females and 5 percent of males between the ages of 15 and 64. However, numbers may be much higher, since many people go through life without ever seeking help. Even those who do seek help put it off approximately five to nine years before discussing the problem with their physician. Most patients do not report incontinence because they are too embarrassed, have low expectations of benefit from reporting and have lack of information regarding management options and success rates. In addition, absorbent products are readily available. However, those who use absorbent products know they are bulky and uncomfortable, not to mention, costly.

Incontinence may cause loss of self-esteem, decreased ability to maintain an independent lifestyle, increased dependence on caregivers for daily life activities, social avoidance, and restricted sexual activity. Contrary to popular belief, incontinence is not a consequence of aging. In most cases it can be treated. At least 80 percent can either regain control or significantly improve control over urinary and fecal incontinence. Different types of incontinence may occur including: overflow incontinence, stress incontinence, urge incontinence, or functional incontinence.

Causes
Incontinence can occur for many reasons, including:

Nervous system disorders
Neuromuscular disease
Injury
Infection
Prostrate obstruction (blocked)
Pelvic floor/urethral disorder
Bladder over sensitivity
Loss of muscle control
Childbirth
Medication
Constipation
Restrictions in mobility
Irritation/inflammation of vaginal muscle (ages 25-45 with no known cause)

Treatment Options
A primary care physician or urologist may offer more specialized treatment including surgery and medications. Treatment for incontinence at the Pain Control Center may include:

Nerve blocks and medications from an anesthesiologist
Physical therapy which might include: electrical stimulation, biofeedback, special exercises, bladder retraining, urinary diver- sion, fluid management, prompted voiding, protective under garments
Counseling and stress management from a pain management counselor

Corrective surgery is used as a last resort. Sometimes, surgery is not an option at all. A physician may refer a patient to the Pain Control Center for a team consultation if nerve blocks or behavioral therapy are options. If not, a physician may refer a patient directly to physical therapy at the Outpatient Rehabilitation Center at (574)289-0122.

The multidisciplinary team at the Pain Control Center will consult with a patient and discuss and plan the appropriate treatment options. Patients may call the Pain Control Center for more information, however, appointments are scheduled by physician referral.

For more information, call the Memorial Pain Control Center at (574) 647-7128 or send us an e-mail.