Pediatrics

Pelvic floor muscle dysfunction affects people of all ages, including children. Physical therapy intervention for children is a non-invasive approach that can be very effective in helping your child gain control and independence with bowel and bladder function. It is important for the child and the parent(s) to feel comfortable, respected and supported in the therapeutic environment to facilitate the learning process of toileting.

All treatments include a parent or parent authorized caregiver to be present with the child and therapist during all evaluation and treatment sessions. Treatment includes the use of computer assisted exercise commonly called biofeedback for purposes of muscle strengthening or lengthening or a combination of both techniques. Muscle relaxation techniques, behavioral and diet modification and a home exercise routine are all part of the treatment strategy which can be easily followed during the week between treatment sessions.

Conditions treated include but are not limited to:

• Bedwetting

• Chronic constipation

• Encopresis (bowel incontinence and/or inability to empty)

• Urinary incontinence

• Fecal urgency or frequency

• Painful elimination (bowel or bladder)

• Urinary frequency or urgency

• Urinary retention

• Vesicoureteral reflux

Our treatment approach is to help the family and especially the child understand and follow through with an individual treatment approach. Sometimes this requires involvement of the school nurse to provide an appropriate environment for toileting. We will work with the school, preschool or after school program or summer camp to facilitate the child’s success with elimination.