Guidelines for the physiotherapeutic management of genuine stress incontinence

Abstract

This article describes an evidence-based and systematic approach to the physiotherapeutic management of genuine stress incontinence. Genuine stress incontinence is the result of a dysfunction of the urethral closing mechanism. Today there is still a lack of standardization in the terminology related to genuine stress incontinence and physiotherapy. This article discusses and compares relevant nomenclature and classification systems related to genuine stress incontinence.Based on the medical diagnosis and the diagnosis of the physiotherapist, a treatment plan will be made, taking into account explicit formulation of the objectives of therapeutic training and management. Whether, and to what extent, these objectives can be achieved, depends on the severity and the nature of the pathology, whether there are local or general complicating factors for recovery and improvement, and to what extent these factors can be influenced by physiotherapy. The process of diagnosis, the process of therapy, and patient education in physiotherapy practice are described. Finally, relevant treatment modalities are discussed, and suggestions for further research noted.