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Toilet use for people with cerebral palsy

Healthwise
By Debby Golonka, MPH

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Children and adults with cerebral palsy may have difficulty using the toilet if their hip joints are stiff or if they have problems walking. Some do not have good control over their bladder muscles. This may result in bed-wetting, leaking urine continuously throughout the day, or wetting during specific activities.

An occupational therapist can teach a person with cerebral palsy exercises to help control the bladder. Special undergarments to protect clothing are also useful. Surgery, biofeedback, and medications are additional ways to treat bladder control problems.

Credits

Author Debby Golonka, MPH
Editor Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA
Associate Editor Pat Truman, MATC
Primary Medical Reviewer Michael J. Sexton, MD - Pediatrics
Specialist Medical Reviewer Louis Pellegrino, MD - Developmental Pediatrics
Last Updated October 14, 2008
Last Updated: 10/14/2008