Overactive bladder (OAB) and feacal incontinence can significantly affect quality of life, causing discomfort, embarrassment, and a constant sense of urgency. For many patients, these issues can be managed with lifestyle changes, pelvic floor exercises, or medications. However, some individuals find these treatments insufficient or difficult to tolerate. That’s where Tibial Nerve Stimulation (TTNS) comes in—a non-invasive, drug-free treatment that offers relief for these conditions by targeting the nervous system.
What is TTNS?
TTNS stands for Transcutaneous Tibial Nerve Stimulation. It works by delivering mild electrical pulses through the tibial nerve, a branch of the sciatic nerve that runs down the leg. This nerve has connections to the sacral nerve plexus, which controls the pelvic floor, bladder, and bowel function.
TTNS is often described as a "neuromodulation" therapy because it helps regulate overactive signals between the brain and the bladder or bowel, improving control over these organs.
How Does TTNS Work for Overactive Bladder?
Overactive bladder is characterized by the sudden urge to urinate, frequent urination, and sometimes leakage (urge incontinence). In OAB, the bladder muscles contract excessively, often when the bladder isn't full. TTNS helps by calming the nerve signals that overstimulate the bladder, thereby reducing urgency and the frequency of involuntary bladder contractions.
Research has shown that regular TTNS sessions can significantly reduce:
Frequency of bathroom trips
Urgency sensations
Episodes of urinary leakage
How Does TTNS Help with Fecal Incontinence?
Fecal incontinence, or the inability to control bowel movements, can be caused by weakened pelvic floor muscles, nerve damage, or a disruption in the signals between the brain and the bowels. TTNS helps by strengthening the neural pathways that regulate bowel control, enhancing the coordination between the pelvic floor and sphincter muscles.
Patients with fecal incontinence often notice improvements in:
Fewer accidents
Better control over bowel movements
Increased confidence in managing daily activities
The TTNS Procedure: What to Expect
One of the major benefits of TTNS is that it is non-invasive and easy to administer. During a session, a small electrode is placed near your ankle, where the tibial nerve is located. Gentle electrical pulses are delivered through this electrode to stimulate the nerve.
Each session typically lasts about 20-30 minutes and can be done in a clinical setting or at home with a portable device. Most patients undergo daily sessions over the course of several months, though your pelvic health physiotherapist will recommend a treatment plan tailored to your needs.
Benefits of TTNS
No surgery or invasive procedures
No medications, avoiding potential side effects
Suitable for patients who haven't responded well to other treatments
Home-based options available for ongoing therapy
Minimal discomfort during the treatment
Is TTNS Right for You?
If you’ve been dealing with the frustration of overactive bladder or fecal incontinence, TTNS could be a game-changing solution. It's particularly helpful for patients who:
Have not seen sufficient results with pelvic floor exercises alone
Want to avoid medications or have experienced side effects from them
Prefer a non-invasive treatment approach
Your pelvic health physiotherapist can assess whether TTNS is suitable for you and guide you through the process. As with any therapy, it’s important to discuss your medical history, symptoms, and treatment goals with a healthcare professional before starting TTNS.
Living with overactive bladder or fecal incontinence doesn’t have to mean constant discomfort or disruption. TTNS offers a promising, non-invasive solution to regain control over your bladder and bowel function. With regular sessions and expert guidance, many patients find significant relief from their symptoms, allowing them to return to daily life with greater confidence and comfort.
If you’d like to learn more about how TTNS could help you, contact us today to schedule a consultation with one of our specialists in pelvic health.
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