Pelvic Floor Physiotherapy for Interstitial Cystitis/Painful Bladder Syndrome

Interstitial cystitis/painful bladder syndrome (IC/PBS) is a condition that causes bladder pain, frequent urination, and discomfort in the pelvic area. It can have a big impact on a person's life. Although the exact cause of IC/PBS is unknown, pelvic physiotherapy has become an important treatment option. This article aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of IC/PBS, including how many people are affected, possible causes, how it affects the body, and the role of pelvic physiotherapy in managing the condition.

IC/PBS mostly affects women, with about 10 times more women being diagnosed than men. It's estimated that 3-8 million people in the United States have this condition. IC/PBS usually starts in early adulthood but can happen at any age. The prevalence of IC/PBS varies in different parts of the world, with higher rates seen in developed countries.

The exact cause of IC/PBS is still not clear, but it's likely due to many factors. Some theories suggest problems with the bladder lining, an abnormal immune response, inflammation in the nerves, or issues with the pelvic floor muscles. Genetic factors, hormones, and environmental triggers may also contribute to its development.

The body's response to IC/PBS involves a complex interaction of different factors. The bladder lining becomes disrupted, making it more sensitive to urine and leading to inflammation. This can cause pain and discomfort. Nerve fibers in the bladder and pelvic area become activated, intensifying pain signals and making the person more sensitive to urgency and frequency of urination.

Although we don't know the exact cause, certain factors can increase the risk of developing IC/PBS:

• Gender: Women are more likely to have IC/PBS, suggesting that hormonal or anatomical factors may play a role.
• Age: IC/PBS usually starts in early adulthood but can happen at any age.
• Pelvic Trauma: Previous pelvic surgeries, urinary tract infections, or childbirth may raise the risk of developing IC/PBS.
• Autoimmune Disorders: Some autoimmune conditions, like systemic lupus erythematosus or inflammatory bowel disease, have been associated with a higher risk of IC/PBS.

• Pelvic Floor Muscle Rehabilitation: Techniques like biofeedback, manual therapy, and specific exercises help improve the strength, coordination, and relaxation of pelvic floor muscles, reducing pain and urinary urgency.
• Bladder Retraining: This technique aims to restore normal bladder function by gradually increasing the time between bathroom visits and promoting relaxation and control.
• Manual Therapy Techniques: Therapists may use techniques like myofascial release and trigger point therapy to address muscle tension and reduce pain in the pelvic area.
• Behavioral and Lifestyle Modifications: Educating patients about dietary changes, stress management, and sleep improvement techniques can help alleviate IC/PBS symptoms.
• Pain Management Techniques: Therapists teach relaxation exercises, deep breathing, and mindfulness techniques to reduce pain perception and improve coping strategies.
• Patient Education and Self-Management: Empowering patients with knowledge about IC/PBS, pelvic floor dysfunction, and self-care strategies helps them actively manage their symptoms and optimize bladder and pelvic floor health.

Through these techniques, pelvic physiotherapy can help reduce and provide relief of symptoms and improve your pelvic floor function. Questions? Call us for a free phone consultation or book your Pelvic Assessment now.