Urge Incontinence
There are several different types of urinary incontinence. Urge incontinence is unique as it is a sudden and intense need to urinate that is soon followed by an unwanted contraction of the bladder, which causes an involuntary loss of urine.
Urge incontinence is also referred to as:
- Bladder spasms
- Overactive bladder
- Spasmodic bladder
- Detrusor instability
- Irritable bladder
It is important to remember that urge incontinence is not a disease, but is actually a symptom of another medical condition, physical issues, or lifestyle habits. The occasional, minor leaks of urine caused by urge incontinence are more likely to occur in women and older adults.
Causes of Urge Incontinence
A few different types of medical conditions that may be causing urge incontinence to occur include:
- A bladder infection
- Pregnancy or childbirth
- An enlarged prostate
- Menopause
- Prostate cancer
- Bladder cancer
- Neurological disorders
- Bladder or kidney stones
- An obstruction near the opening of the bladder
Physical Therapy–Focused Treatment for Urge Incontinence
Urge incontinence is highly treatable, and for many individuals, conservative, non-invasive care is the most effective first step. At Lokahi Physical Therapy and Wellness, treatment focuses on addressing the pelvic floor, bladder control mechanisms, and nervous system factors that contribute to urgency and leakage—rather than simply managing symptoms.
How Physical Therapy Can Help
Our pelvic health specialists create individualized treatment plans designed to calm bladder overactivity, improve muscle coordination, and restore confidence in daily activities. Therapy for urge incontinence may include:
Pelvic Floor Muscle Training – Targeted therapy to improve coordination and control of the pelvic floor muscles that support the bladder and regulate urine flow. Treatment may also address muscles that are overly tense or overactive, which can contribute to urgency and spasms.
Bladder Retraining & Urge Suppression Strategies – Structured techniques to gradually increase bladder capacity, reduce sudden urges, and establish healthier voiding intervals. Patients learn practical strategies to delay urgency and prevent leakage.
Manual Therapy & Myofascial Release – Gentle, hands-on techniques to reduce tension and restrictions in the pelvic floor, abdomen, hips, and lower back that may irritate bladder nerves or contribute to urgency.
Breathing & Nervous System Regulation – Training the diaphragm and pelvic floor to work together while reducing nervous system overactivity that can trigger bladder contractions.
Posture, Movement & Pressure Management – Addressing movement patterns, lifting mechanics, and abdominal pressure strategies that influence bladder control during daily activities.
Education & Lifestyle Guidance – Support with bladder irritants, hydration habits, bowel health, and behavioral triggers that may worsen urgency symptoms.
Physical therapy offers a safe, evidence-based approach that often reduces or eliminates urge incontinence symptoms without medication or invasive procedures. If symptoms persist despite conservative care, additional medical options can be discussed in coordination with your healthcare provider.
Schedule a Consultation
To schedule a pelvic health evaluation at Lokahi Physical Therapy and Wellness, please call our office in Huntington Beach, CA today at 714-963-3322.