Incontinence - improving treatment

Incontinence - improving treatment

This research was completed on 19 March 2003

Project LeaderProfessor J A Oldham, PhD, Dr S M Jeyaseelan, PhD and Mrs J Winstanley.
LocationThe Centre for Rehabilitation Science, University of Manchester.
Grant awarded30 November 1999
Start date20 March 2000
End date19 March 2003
Grant amount£14,150.00
Grant codeAP0813
Stress incontinence is the involuntary loss of urine during activities such as laughing and coughing. It affects 60% of women between 45 and 64. Whilst the condition can be treated using pelvic floor exercises and/or electrotherapy, the electrotherapy used in this country has not been evaluated, so potential adverse affects remain a matter of concern. This study aims to provide definitive data on the efficacy of pelvic floor exercises and a new pattern of stimulation which has been shown to improve the strength and endurance characteristics of pelvic floor musculature. The new technique has the potential to considerably improve the treatment given to patients with stress incontinence.