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Bowel and bladder training

Our compassionate team helps you take control of bowel and bladder issues with personalized treatment during inpatient rehabilitation

Get started with bowel and bladder training during inpatient rehabilitation

Bowel or bladder problems can feel overwhelming—but you’re not alone. These challenges are often caused by muscle or nerve damage and may lead to incontinence, which means trouble controlling when you go to the bathroom.

Although it can be difficult to talk about, incontinence is common—and it’s treatable. At Encompass Health, our experienced team understands what you're going through. We offer compassionate, judgment-free support to help you feel more comfortable and in control. In a healthy body, the brain, nerves and muscles work together to control urination and bowel movements. But when an illness or injury disrupts these signals, it can affect your ability to go to the bathroom on your own.

Our bowel and bladder training program is designed to restore as much independence as possible. During your inpatient stay, our team will assess your specific needs and create a plan that works for you. Together, we’ll set goals like reducing nighttime bathroom trips or establishing a regular schedule.

Nurse speaking with a patient

What’s included in your bowel and bladder rehabilitation

  • A daily bathroom schedule to help train your body’s natural rhythm
  • Pelvic floor exercises to strengthen key muscles
  • Biofeedback or nerve stimulation therapy Nutrition and hydration education to support healthy habits
  • Medication, lifestyle changes or catheterization if needed

We’ll guide you every step of the way in a supportive environment focused on dignity, progress and empowerment

Nurse speaking with a patient

Conditions that might benefit from bowel and bladder training

Bowel and bladder problems can result from a wide range of conditions. Whether your condition is new or something you’ve been managing for years, we’ll help you take the next step toward greater independence.

Our program supports patients with issues related to:

  • Stroke
  • Parkinson’s disease
  • Spinal cord injury
  • Multiple sclerosis
  • Dementia

 


  • Cancer and cancer treatments
  • Diabetes
  • Pelvic floor weakness
  • Enlarged prostate

The Encompass Health difference

Experience that matters

As the largest network of inpatient rehabilitation hospitals, we have the experience and access to the latest treatments and technology to help you recover more quickly and effectively.

Compassionate care

Your rehabilitation is not just about physical recovery. It's about you as a person. Our multidisciplinary care team will provide unwavering support and give you the strength, skills and confidence needed to regain your highest level of independence.

Exceptional results

Intensive therapy works. At our hospitals, you will receive three hours of therapy per day, five days a week, along with frequent visits from your physician and 24/7 nursing care. This combination is designed to help you achieve the best possible recovery.

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Your care team

From 24-hour nursing care to specially trained rehabilitation nurses, therapists, physicians and case managers, we are here to support you in every way possible.
Nurses helping a patient walk on parallel bars
Explore our care approach

Bowel and bladder training FAQs

You can expect a compassionate, structured approach tailored to your needs. Your care team will assess your current challenges and help create a routine that supports bowel and bladder control. The goal is to help you regain confidence, reduce accidents and establish a manageable daily routine. You’ll also learn techniques and strategies you can continue at home.
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