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Overactive bladder (OAB) is a common condition characterized by a frequent and urgent need to urinate, sometimes accompanied by incontinence. This condition can significantly impact quality of life, but effective management strategies such as bladder retraining can help. In this blog post, we’ll explore the concept of bladder retraining, the role of Bradley’s loops in micturition, the involvement of pelvic floor muscles, and how pelvic floor physical therapy can support this process.
Understanding Bradley Loops and Micturition
The process of urination, or micturition, is controlled by a complex interaction of neurological pathways known as Bradley’s loops. These loops are essential for the coordination of bladder filling and emptying:

Disruptions in these loops, such as those caused by neurological conditions, anxiety, or habitual patterns, can contribute to the symptoms of overactive bladder.
How Bladder Retraining Works
Bladder retraining is a behavioral therapy aimed at improving bladder control and reducing the frequency and urgency of urination. It involves gradually increasing the time between voiding and managing the urge to urinate. Here’s how it works:

The Role of Pelvic Floor Muscles
The pelvic floor muscles play a crucial role in bladder control. These muscles support the bladder and urethra, and their proper function is essential for maintaining continence. Here’s how they are involved in bladder retraining:

How Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy Can Help
Pelvic floor physical therapy offers a comprehensive approach to managing overactive bladder and supporting bladder retraining efforts. Here’s how it can help:

Bladder retraining is an effective approach to managing overactive bladder by gradually increasing the time between voiding and improving bladder control. Understanding the role of Bradley loops in micturition and the involvement of pelvic floor muscles is essential for successful bladder retraining. Pelvic floor physical therapy provides a holistic and supportive approach to this process, offering muscle assessment, training, biofeedback, behavioral strategies, manual therapy, and education. By working with a skilled pelvic floor physical therapist, individuals with overactive bladder can achieve better control, reduced symptoms, and an improved quality of life.
Suffering from urinary urgency and frequency? Reach out to us at Pelvic Health Center in Madison, NJ to set up an evaluation and treatment! Feel free to call us at 908-443-9880 or email us at

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