Written by a pelvic floor physical therapist at Empower Your Pelvis, in Kansas City, Missouri (Lee Summit, MO and Overland Park, KS)

Interstitial cystitis (IC) is a condition many people seek help for at our clinic. Some come with a diagnosis from their doctor, while others find the symptoms match what they’ve read online. So, what exactly is IC, and what does it mean if you have it? Here’s a hint – pelvic physical therapy can be a game-changer!

What is Interstitial Cystitis?

Fifteen years ago, IC was thought of as a bladder lining disorder leading to pain and frequent urination. Patients were often advised to avoid a lengthy list of foods (often known as the "IC diet"). However, research now shows that only about 10% of patients with IC actually have bladder lining lesions. The other 90% experience similar symptoms without these lesions.

Today, we understand IC as a combination of increased pelvic floor muscle tension and an overactive nervous system, leading to bladder symptoms like urgency, frequency, and pain. Now that we know what IC is, let’s explore effective ways to treat it!

1. Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy

The American Urological Association recommends pelvic floor physical therapy for managing IC. Here’s where we step in! People with IC often have high-tone pelvic floor muscles – think of muscles constantly clenched, like holding your breath. Pelvic floor PT can help release this tension through manual techniques, stretches, breathing exercises, and relaxation strategies you can use daily.

2. Calming the Nervous System

For many with IC, nerves are overly sensitive, leading to heightened responses to pain and discomfort. Calming your nervous system can make a huge difference. Deep breathing exercises, meditation, or guided apps like Calm, Headspace, or Insight Timer can help. Other methods include humming, chanting, gargling, or lying on your stomach to engage the vagus nerve. If needed, your doctor may prescribe medications to help regulate nerve sensitivity.

3. Diet Adjustments

Gone are the days of rigid 50+ food restrictions for IC! However, some foods can still trigger symptoms. Keeping a bladder diary, where you track what you eat and drink alongside your symptoms, can help identify any potential triggers. Common ones include alcohol, caffeine, teas, tomato-based foods, spicy dishes, and citrus fruits. Try eliminating a suspected trigger for two weeks and gradually reintroducing it – if symptoms flare, you’ll know!

4. Stress Management

Stress and anxiety often worsen nervous system sensitivity. Finding ways to manage your stress is essential. Activities like yoga, outdoor walks, running, listening to music, journaling, or even adult coloring books can help – it’s all about what feels best for you.

5. Stay Hydrated

Proper hydration is essential for bladder health. Aim to drink half your body weight in ounces of water daily. Remember, teas or water with added sweeteners don’t count!

6. Follow-Up with Your Urologist

Regular check-ins with your urologist can help refine your treatment plan. They may suggest other treatments to complement pelvic floor PT and other strategies.

Final Thoughts on Managing Interstitial Cystitis

IC can be challenging, but it’s manageable with the right approach. Pelvic floor physical therapy, mindful lifestyle changes, and stress management can significantly improve symptoms. You don’t have to navigate this alone – consider reaching out to a pelvic floor specialist to guide you on your path to relief.

Get Professional Help

If you're looking for “pelvic floor therapy near me”, consider scheduling a consultation at one of our locations in Kansas City-Overland Park, Kansas, or Lees Summit, Missouri. Click here to book your appointment.

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With wellness in your pelvis-

Amanda Fisher, PT, DPT
Owner, Empower Your Pelvis, a pelvic floor physical therapy clinic in Kansas City (Lee’s Summit, MO and Overland Park, KS)