Interstitial Cystitis
Reclaim comfort and control with our compassionate care and personalized physical therapy.
Interstitial cystitis (IC), also called painful bladder syndrome, is a chronic condition that causes bladder pain, pressure, and urinary discomfort. It can feel frustrating and isolating, while also impacting your daily activities and quality of life. At Beyond Basics, we specialize in physical therapy for interstitial cystitis to help you manage symptoms, reduce pain, and regain control over your life.
Symptoms of Interstitial Cystitis
The symptoms of IC can vary from person to person, but some common signs include:
- Pain or discomfort while the bladder fills and relief after urinating
- Persistent pressure, tenderness, or pain in the pelvic area
- Frequent urination, often in small amounts
- A constant urge to urinate, even when the bladder is empty
- Discomfort or pain during sexual activity
What Causes Interstitial Cystitis?
The exact cause of interstitial cystitis isn’t fully understood, but several factors might contribute, including:
- Hunner’s lesions: Distinctive inflammatory lesions of the bladder lining which can be diagnosed by cystoscopy
- Pelvic floor dysfunction: Tight or weak pelvic floor muscles can contribute to bladder pain and urinary symptoms
- Bladder lining damage: Irritation or damage to the bladder’s protective lining may make it more sensitive to substances in urine
- Nerve sensitization: Overactive or damaged nerves around the bladder may increase sensations of pain or urgency
- Chronic inflammation: Long-term inflammation in the bladder can worsen discomfort and symptoms
- Other contributing factors: Stress, infections, or autoimmune conditions may play a role in triggering IC
How Physical Therapy Can Help
At Beyond Basics, our physical therapy treatments for interstitial cystitis are designed to address symptoms and provide long-term relief. Our approach includes:
- Bladder retraining: Techniques to help manage urinary frequency and urgency through controlled timing and behavioral changes
- Manual therapy: Hands-on methods to release tension and improve mobility in the pelvic region
- Therapeutic exercises: Exercises to relax or strengthen the pelvic floor muscles, reducing bladder pain and urinary urgency
- Lifestyle modifications: Guidance on diet, posture, and stress management to minimize flare-ups and promote lasting comfort
- Supportive care: A personalized, compassionate plan tailored to your unique needs and challenges
What to Expect During Your Sessions
During Your Initial Appointment
At your first visit, we’ll talk with you about your symptoms, triggers, and any challenges you’re facing. This discussion helps us understand your unique situation and create a care plan that’s right for you. We’ll also gently assess your pelvic floor muscles, posture, and any areas of pain or discomfort. Together, we’ll develop a personalized treatment plan to address your symptoms and provide relief.
During Your Additional Appointments
Follow-up sessions are designed to meet your comfort level and progress. You’ll work one-on-one with a physical therapist on pelvic floor exercises and bladder retraining techniques. We’ll also use gentle hands-on methods to release muscle tension, improve pelvic alignment, and reduce discomfort. Throughout your treatment, we’ll monitor your progress and adjust your plan to ensure you’re getting the best possible results.
Client Testimonials
Beyond Basics: We Can Help
At Beyond Basics, we are committed to treating pelvic floor issues with sensitivity to each individual’s needs, regardless of sex, race, identity, age, or orientation – we treat the whole person with a comprehensive, caring biopsychosocial approach.
Since 2003, Beyond Basics has been a place of hope and healing for our patients. We believe skilled and compassionate healing can restore your body’s harmony and balance. Founder, Amy Stein, and co-founder, Corey Hazama are renowned experts and leaders in pelvic floor PT.
The skilled physical therapists at Beyond Basics receive extensive training to qualify them to be the world’s leaders in pelvic floor rehabilitation. All of our therapists have been carefully selected to work at Beyond Basics because they possess the right expertise, kindness, and empathy to allow them to excel at our practice. Our therapists have completed hundreds of additional hours outside of their doctorates both internally and externally through institutes such as Herman and Wallace and the American Physical Therapy Association, to help hone their practice and provide exceptional treatment efficiently and compassionately. In addition to being the world’s first and foremost experts in pelvic floor dysfunction, our individual therapists have cultivated additional skills unique to their own personal interests. Read more about each one of our therapists here.
Get help now from a pelvic floor therapist.
Interstitial Cystitis
— Beyond Basics PT | Pelvic Floor Therapy NYC.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is interstitial cystitis aka bladder pain syndrome?
Interstitial cystitis aka bladder pain syndrome is a chronic condition characterized by persistent bladder pain, pressure, and urinary symptoms that are not caused by an infection.
Can physical therapy really help with bladder pain syndrome?
Yes, physical therapy can be highly effective in reducing bladder pain syndrome by addressing pelvic floor dysfunction, improving bladder muscle relaxation, and relieving tension in the pelvic area.
What does pelvic floor physical therapy involve?
Pelvic floor physical therapy includes targeted exercises, manual techniques, and relaxation methods to strengthen or release the muscles supporting the bladder and pelvic organs.
How is interstitial cystitis diagnosed?
Interstitial cystitis is diagnosed based on symptoms, medical history, and by ruling out other conditions like urinary tract infections. In some cases, an assessment or cystoscopy of the bladder wall might be needed.
Can diet changes help if my symptoms get worse?
Yes, certain foods and drinks, like caffeine or acidic items, can irritate the bladder wall and make symptoms worse. Adjusting your diet, along with physical therapy, may help reduce flare-ups.
How long does treatment take to see results?
The timeline varies, but many people notice improvements in bladder pain and other symptoms after several weeks of consistent physical therapy focused on the bladder and pelvic floor.
Is chronic pelvic pain syndrome the same as interstitial cystitis?
Chronic pelvic pain syndrome and interstitial cystitis share similarities, such as pelvic discomfort and bladder-related symptoms, but they are not exactly the same. While the causes may differ, both conditions can benefit significantly from physical therapy. By addressing pelvic floor dysfunction, improving muscle balance, and relieving tension in the pelvic region, physical therapy can help reduce pain and improve your overall quality of life.
