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“Numerous case studies and some clinical studies are revealing that there is a relationship between abnormalities in the spine, the nervous system and the various problems people have with the urinary and reproductive system” stated Dr. Matthew McCoy, a chiropractor, public health researcher and editor of the journal that published the study. “These types of structural shifts in the spine obstruct the nerves involved in bladder function. By removing the structural shifts, chiropractic improves nerve supply and function.”
Ordinarily, pregnant women suffering from urinary incontinence will be given Kegel exercises, however, there is conflicting evidence regarding exactly how effective Kegel exercises are at preventing or improving symptoms of incontinence. But according to McCoy “Uncovering the cause of the incontinence which may be structural spinal shifts causing nerve obstruction is a much better strategy.”
The woman reported on in the study presented for chiropractic care in the second trimester of her second pregnancy with complaints of urinary incontinence, low back pain, and generalized diffuse body pain. She would frequently urinate on herself when sneezing or coughing even shortly after voiding the bladder.
The onset of the urinary incontinence was described as immediately after delivery of her first child over three years prior. During that delivery, severe tearing of the perineum occurred, and the patient suffered significant urinary incontinence since that event.
The woman was examined by the chiropractor who found abnormal posture, imbalance in weight distribution, balance and coordination problems. Structural shifts in her low back and pelvis were also found. These structural shifts can lead to obstruction of the nerves and it is this obstruction, called vertebral subluxations, that chiropractors correct. Following just four chiropractic visits the urinary incontinence completely resolved.
The researcher reviewed the anatomy related to urinary incontinence and called for more research on chiropractic, subluxation and genitourinary problems in pregnancy.
Contact Information:
Matthew McCoy DC, MPH
Journal of Pediatric, Maternal & Family Health – Chiropractic
http://www.chiropracticpediatricresearch.com
drmatthewmccoy@gmail.com
