16% of men and 33% of women over the age of 40 have UI. Approximately 50% of women have pelvic organ prolapse and half of these women have symptoms of vaginal or rectal heaviness or pressure. Both incontinence and prolapse can significantly impact people’s lives, causing physical and/or emotional discomfort and often limiting social, occupation or physical activities. Physiotherapy is recommended as a first approach to treating these conditions.
The level 1 course, “Incontinence and Pelvic Organ Prolapse: An intensive intro course”, provides the learner with an evidence-based approach so both you and your client have confidence in the time and money that goes into treatment. The presentation, pathophysiology, evaluation and interventions for female and male bladder and bowel dysfunction, incontinence and pelvic organ prolapse are studied in detail. Theory, research, demonstration, and practical sessions including subjective/objective assessment and treatment of these conditions are included.
Examination of the pelvic floor via perineal observation, internal vaginal and rectal exam; treatment techniques specific to assessment findings; and the use of EMG biofeedback in small groups is covered. Class size is limited to ensure optimum learning, practice, and translation of skill. Instruction on how to screen for low estrogen, vulvar skin and vaginal pain conditions to enable helpful referral is included. A common sense, evidence-informed, and critical thinking approach is implemented throughout the course. Participants are challenged to problem-solve. Clinicians leave the course with new conditions to treat and skills to use immediately on return to their office the next day!
Biofeedback is not a treatment! It is a tool to enhance treatment and help improve acquisition of pelvic floor proprioceptive and motor control.
These skills are imperative for treatment to be beneficial. As for any tool, its usefulness depends on the knowledge and skill of the person using the tool! This is covered in detail during the course. EMG biofeedback units are available for each group of 2-3 course participants throughout the course for all lab sessions.
Our courses focus on active rather than passive techniques. Treatment techniques are supported by incontinence, prolapse and pain science peer reviewed literature. Learn new techniques for your “tool box” that are not myofascial or trigger point related. There is an emphasis on client empowerment through education and active treatment. Course content focuses on a biopsychosocial multidisciplinary approach and includes information on trauma informed care. On completion of the course, participants also receive either a half day clinical mentorship or 1.5 hour virtual 1:1 follow up with one of the course instructors.
Ensure you are practicing within an evidence based approach that involves clinical reasoning rather than recipes to identify what is causing the client’s concerns and how to address them with an active rather than passive treatment approach. Develop skill with EMG biofeedback. Learn how to support your clients within a multidisciplinary team. Ensure your approach is trauma informed. Take the opportunity for post course 1:1 mentorship that is included in the registration fee.
Marcy Dayan, RPT
Pelvic Health Physiotherapy Educator
