Bowel Incontinence Treatment in Edinburgh
Bowel incontinence (also called faecal incontinence) is the accidental leakage of stool or difficulty controlling bowel movements. For many, this is a highly sensitive and difficult topic to talk about — but it is far more common than people realise, especially after prostate surgery or as we get older.
At The Physiotherapy Clinics, our specialist physiotherapists provide discreet, expert treatment to help patients regain control, confidence, and quality of life.
What Is Bowel Incontinence?
Causes of Bowel Incontinence
- Post-prostatectomy incontinence – changes in muscle and nerve function after prostate surgery.
- Age-related changes – natural weakening of the pelvic floor and anal sphincter muscles.
- Neurological conditions – such as diabetes, spinal problems, or nerve injury.
- Digestive issues – long-term constipation, diarrhoea, or inflammatory bowel disease.
- Pelvic surgery or trauma – weakening of the pelvic muscles and supporting structures.
How Physiotherapy Can Help
Our physiotherapists use a holistic, evidence-based approach to treatment, which may include:
- Pelvic floor muscle rehabilitation – strengthening the anal sphincter and pelvic floor for improved bowel control.
- Biofeedback training – helping you see and feel how to correctly contract pelvic muscles.
- Bowel habit retraining – optimising toileting techniques, diet, and fluid intake.
- Post-prostatectomy rehabilitation – focused programmes to restore continence following prostate surgery.
- Education and support – breaking down stigma and empowering you to manage symptoms effectively.
Shockwave Therapy for Bowel Incontinence
As part of our advanced treatment options, we also offer extracorporeal shockwave therapy (ESWT). Shockwave therapy uses sound waves to:
- Improve blood flow
- Stimulate tissue repair
- Enhance pelvic floor muscle activation
When combined with physiotherapy, shockwave therapy shows promising results for those with bowel and urinary incontinence, particularly after prostate surgery.
Why Choose The Physiotherapy Clinics in Edinburgh?
We recognise the impact that bowel incontinence can have on every aspect of life — from work and relationships to self-esteem. Our physiotherapists provide private, professional, and supportive care across four Edinburgh clinics.
You don’t have to accept bowel leakage as part of life after surgery or ageing. With the right treatment, many people experience significant improvement and return to living with confidence.
