Pelvic Floor Dysfunction in Children with ADHD or Autism: Understanding Toileting Behaviors & Supporting Neurodiverse Needs
Toileting challenges are among the most common (and most frustrating) daily struggles for families of children with ADHD or autism. Whether it’s frequent accidents, withholding, constipation, or resistance to using the toilet, these issues often feel confusing and unpredictable. The truth is, pelvic floor dysfunction in neurodiverse children is not about stubbornness or defiance. It’s about […]
What’s Normal for Pediatric Bladder Health? A Guide for Parents from a Pediatric Pelvic Floor PT
As a pediatric pelvic floor physical therapist, one of the most common concerns I hear from parents is: “Is this normal?” Whether it’s related to daytime accidents, frequent urination, bedwetting, or bathroom habits, navigating bladder health in children can feel confusing and even overwhelming. The good news? There are well-established norms we can use as a guide—and […]
The Hidden Link: How Constipation Affects Focus & Mood in Children
When a child is struggling with focus in the classroom or seems irritable at home, we often think of sleep schedules, screen time, or academic challenges. But as a pediatric pelvic floor physical therapist, I see another powerful—and often overlooked—factor: constipation. Constipation doesn’t just affect the body. It can impact how a child feels, behaves, and […]
Move, Play, Connect: Activities That Boost Body Awareness and Help Kids Master Bladder and Bowel Cues
As a pediatric pelvic floor physical therapist, I spend a lot of time helping children tune into their bodies—especially when it comes to recognizing when it’s time to pee or poop. For many of our patients, the issue isn’t just physical; it’s also about body awareness and coordination. Some kids struggle to notice or respond […]
Get Moving: How Physical Activity Supports Kids’ Health and Keeps Constipation Away
As a pediatric pelvic floor physical therapist, I see firsthand how closely linked movement and gut health really are. One of the most common complaints we treat in the clinic is constipation. It might surprise you to learn that it’s not just a dietary issue—lack of movement plays a major role, too. Constipation is one […]
Case Study: Overcoming Encopresis—How Pelvic Floor Therapy Helped a 10-Year-Old Return to Play
At Magic City Physical Therapy, we often meet families searching for answers to symptoms that have gone unrecognized or misunderstood for years. Chronic constipation and encopresis (fecal leakage) are conditions that can quietly disrupt a child’s life, both physically and emotionally. Fortunately, with the right support and care, meaningful progress is not only possible—it’s likely. […]
A Journey to Dry Days: Successful Pediatric Pelvic Therapy for a 6-Year-Old Girl with Encopresis and Incontinence
When six-year-old “Emma” (name changed for privacy) first came to our clinic, she was struggling with a trio of distressing symptoms: encopresis (fecal incontinence), daytime urinary incontinence, and nighttime bedwetting (enuresis). Her parents were overwhelmed, unsure of how to support her, and Emma herself was growing more withdrawn and anxious. She avoided playdates, was hesitant […]
The Link Between Toilet Training and Pelvic Floor Dysfunction
As a pediatric pelvic floor physical therapist, I often meet families who are doing everything they can to support their child’s health and development—but still find themselves facing frustrating challenges like constipation, accidents, or bathroom anxiety. Toilet training is a big milestone, and every child’s journey is unique. What’s less commonly discussed is how early […]
Intensive Pediatric Pelvic Floor Therapy: Why More Frequent Visits Can Help
When a child is struggling with bowel or bladder dysfunction—whether it’s chronic constipation, encopresis (fecal leakage), enuresis (bedwetting), or urinary incontinence—the path to improvement often feels daunting for both the child and their caregivers. Understandably, families want to see results quickly, and many are surprised to learn that a more intensive schedule—such as two to […]
Clear Bladders, Confident Children: Avoid Irritants for Easier Potty Training
Potty training is a crucial developmental milestone for children, but it can be complicated by various factors, including bladder irritants. Understanding this correlation can help parents and caregivers manage potty training more effectively. Here’s how bladder irritants can impact potty training: What Are Bladder Irritants? Bladder irritants are substances that can irritate the bladder lining, […]