Question
I had my back diagnosed with a disc prolapse about 7-8 years ago.
I have for a couple of years now had problems on and off with urinating. I always thought i had a strong bladder, but now and again i get a few days/weeks when i leak urine when i stand up ,cough, even after having emptied my bladder when i get up from the toilet, i leak a little more urine. There is usually no pain and urine tests were negative.
I have had 3 children, the youngest only being 10 months old. I do pelvic floor exercises regularly, and i thought this maybe the reason for the leakages. But as they come and go i wondered if it could possibly be brought on by my back problem.
How can i find out if this leaking of urine is brought on by my disc prolapse, and if it is the problem of this, will surgery improve this
problem?
thankyou  

Answer
Dear Debbie, thank you for your question.
Urinary incontinence can be caused by a variety of things. Since your problem comes and goes, I'm inclined to think that it may be related to your back problem. The nerves controlling the bladder are located in the lumbar spine. I have had patients, who responded well to specific exercises. In the major of cases, the problem was worst after prolonged sitting or bendin and towards the end of day.
I recommend you find a Physical Therapist specializing in spine care. Go to the McKenzie Institute website at www.mckenziemdt.org, they have a locator site. You can also give you more info about back problems.
I hope this helps, let me know.
Heidi