Deep Tissue Massage for Overactive Bladder: A Holistic Approach

Question
Hello Jessica,

I was diagnosed with overactive bladder 3 months ago and have been treating it with prescription drugs, chiropractic therapy, and acupuncture.

I'd like to know if in your experience deep-tissue massage would help out cumulatively in treating my condition. Right now I'm experiencing random twitches of the bladder that will happen on completey random days.  They might last a few seconds and may repeat later on in the same day.

Thank you for your advice.

Regards,

steve

Answer
Steve,

Thanks for trusting me with your question.

What were the results with accupuncture? Anything? or for how long did they last?

I have a couple of comments about over-active bladder and massage. I personally don't think that the "deep tissue" technique would be the best. Have you tried reflexology? A good reflexologist can do a lot for those issues (I can try to help you look up one if you would like).

If you'd like to go for more traditional massage methods, I would probably suggest an abdominal massage. Here's a link to something you can even try yourself (to some extend) and see if you get relief from massage. http://www.massagecures.com/overactive-bladder/
My advice in general (and you can talk with your therapist about it) is to start with a couple sessions close in proximity and then wean off (or continue for maintenance).

Some different approaches that also may help (all of these are types of massage) are Cranial Sacral (a balancing of the flow of the fluid surrounding your spinal cord) Therapy..I'm sure this sounds strange and you may ask "what does that have to do with the bladder?" This is a gentle/rocking form of massage.

The technique (besides the initial I mentioned of abdominal massage - which is a form of Swedish massage) if myofascial release. What this does is release trigger points (spots that can refer pain or other issues). It is highly effective and tends to last longer (works both on the muscles and the fascia "the skin" around the muscle). Usually a number of sessions in close proximity are required to help release the area.

Finally, have you been given any exercises yet? I don't know if your chiropractor gave you any. Pelvic floor exercises as well as some others to help strengthen the area.

When looking for a massage therapist - think about which technique seems to make the most sense to you. Ask if the therapist is certified or trained in the technique you'd like them to use (or if they are trained in multiple - you can talk with them about what is best for you). I will also recommend that at the beginning (ex. on the phone or when explaining what's going on) mention that you have seen your doctor, tried his/her approaches, and are looking for additional methods to help.

Massage in combination with strengthening exercises will help a lot.

I know that is a bit of a long answer. I hope it helps, if you have any questions, please don't hesitate to write back & if you would like assistance finding a massage therapist or strengthening exercises, I'd be happy to help out with that.

Always,

Jessica