How can reflexology help with bladder control?
Reflexology is a wonderful way to aid the body in natural healing. Many systems benefit from the balancing effect of this ancient therapy. The feet have numerous reflex points which relate to all parts of the body. These reflex points are found on the soles, the top, and the sides of the feet. These reflex areas connect to the entire body through meridians or energy channels. The hands can be massaged when it is not possible to work on the feet. Although the hands are not as sensitive as the feet initially, they will become more sensitive to the method when worked on with Reflexology massage. By massaging the various areas, a diagnosis of the parts of the body which are out of balance, therefore not working efficiently can be made and treatment given to correct these imbalances and thus return the body to good working order. Therefore the whole of the body is treated and not just the symptoms.
How can acupuncture therapy be used to treat urinary incontinence in women? Is it effective for all types of incontinence?
Acupuncture has been used for thousands of years to treat physical problems. The primary therapy consists of stimulating certain areas along the 14 meridian channels that are throughout the body. Acupuncture Chinese medical experts believe that incontinence is caused by a lack of energy in the kidney and spleen and their related meridians. To combat this imbalance, they work on the points that correspond to these areas and to the bladder. Acupressure Points that may be focused on during an acupressure session to treat incontinence are Conception Vessel 2, Spleen 6, and related auricular points.
What herbs or nutritional supplements have proven effective in treating urinary incontinence in women?
I personally an advocate of Dr’ D’adamo’s Eat Right 4 Your Type. This is based on the theory that certain foods are more beneficial for you depending upon your specific blood type. I have had great results using this protocol in my practice. Supplements are exactly what they are; they supplement the vitamins and minerals that you may not be getting in our food supply. They are not to replace proper nutrition that we get from eating nutritious whole foods. The following is a list of nutritional supplements that are known for building up the body and may be beneficial to those that suffer with incontinence.
You should work with your health care provider to get your problem diagnosed before starting any treatment
A multivitamin daily, containing the antioxidant vitamins A, C, D, E, the B-vitamins and trace minerals, such as magnesium, calcium, zinc, and selenium.
- Calcium citrate, 500 - 1000 mg daily, for bone and muscle support.
- Vitamin D, 400 IU daily, for bone and muscle support. You can also get Vitamin D from the sun in moderation.
- Magnesium citrate, 200 - 400 mg daily, for muscle support.
- Probiotic supplement (containing Lactobacillus acidophilus ), 5 - 10 billion CFUs (colony forming units) a day, for maintenance of gastrointestinal and immune health. You should refrigerate your probiotic supplements for best results.
- Omega-3 fatty acids, such as fish oil, 1 - 2 capsules or 1 tbs. of oil one to two times daily, to help decrease inflammation and improve immunity. Cold-water fish, such as salmon or halibut, are good sources.
- During menopause Essential Fatty Acids provide nutrients that allow the body to make sufficient estrogen.
- L-theanine, 200 mg one to three times daily, for nervous system support.
- Acetyl-L-carnitine, 500 mg daily, for antioxidant and muscle protective activity.
Herbs
Herbs are generally a safe way to strengthen and tone the body's systems. Astringent herbs have a drying effect. You may use herbs as dried extracts (capsules, powders, teas), glycerites (glycerine extracts), or tinctures (alcohol extracts). Unless otherwise indicated, you should make teas with 1 tsp. herb per cup of hot water. Steep covered 5 - 10 minutes for leaf or flowers, and 10 - 20 minutes for roots. Drink 2 - 4 cups per day. You may use tinctures alone or in combination as noted. Always check with your health professional if you are currently taking medication.
The following herbal remedies may provide relief from symptoms:
- Cranberry ( Vaccinium macrocarpon ) standardized extract, 300 - 400 mg daily, for kidney health. You may also drink 8 - 16 ounces of unsweetened cranberry juice daily.
- Green tea ( Camellia sinensis ) standardized extract, 250 - 500 mg daily, for antioxidant and immune effects. Use caffeine-free products. You may also prepare teas from the leaf of this herb.
- St. John's wort ( Hypericum perforatum ) standardized extract, 300 mg two to three times per day, for symptoms of urinary incontinence. Check with your health care provider if you are taking prescription medications.
Can yoga be effective in treating female urinary incontinence? If so, how does it help?
Yoga is an exceptional way to keep your body in tune with its inner self. This art was also practiced for thousands of years. Yoga is especially good for those who are Blood Type A. A yoga exercise called the stomach lock can help strengthen muscles in the lower abdomen, increasing bladder control, says Alice Christensen, founder and executive director of the American Yoga Association. Her instructions for the exercise: Lie on your back and take a deep breath. Breathe out until the breath is completely gone, and then pull in your buttock, groin and stomach muscles hard. Hold for a count of three, then release your muscles. This exercise should not be performed if there are any contraindications such as a hiatalhernia or low back issues.
What other types of natural or alternative treatments are effective for treating urinary incontinence in women?
BioFeedback may be effective for incontinence. Biofeedback is a safe, noninvasive, painless, and effective use of instruments, now usually computerized, to provide continuous information about subtle changes in aspects of your body's functioning related to your symptoms. Its purpose is to teach you to regulate the physical responses underlying symptoms. It thus falls into the categories of behavioral medicine and mind-body education. (In other words, it can be seen as both a medical intervention and an educational experience.)
What lifestyle changes can women make to prevent the development of urinary incontinence?
I personally feel Kegel exercises are extremely beneficial in preventing urinary incontinence. They are also great to do during pregnancy to help strengthen the uterus.
Incontinence Network reports that between 50 - 75% of patients who perform only Kegel exercises experience a substantial improvement in their symptoms, including elderly people who have had the problem for years. A 2006 review suggested that Kegel exercises are especially helpful for women in their 40s and 50s who suffer from stress incontinence.
Please contact me if you have any questions.
Melissa Bennett, N.D.