Electrical Stimulation for Pediatric Bowel & Bladder Health

Session Description

Pelvic Health disorders in children and adolescents, including bowel, bladder dysfunction and pain can be challenging to address. Physical therapists are uniquely trained to utilize electrical stimulation as part of a complete plan of care to treat pelvic health issues. It is well-known that electrical stimulation can be used to support pelvic health through muscle strengthening, reduction of overactive bladder symptoms and for pain reduction in adults. Research shows that Transcutaneous Electrical Stimulation (TENS) can also improve symptoms of non-neurogenic urinary and fecal incontinence, encopresis and constipation in children and adolescents. In addition, TENS can help to reduce abdominal pain and primary dysmenorrhea in these populations. In this educational presentation, we will review common objectives, uses, contraindications and precautions when utilizing electrical stimulation to support pelvic health. We will present parameters, protocols and equipment needed to address common pelvic health concerns in pediatric and adolescent clients using neuromodulation. Following this presentation, learners will have the knowledge and skills to apply electrical stimulation in support of the pelvic health of their pediatric and adolescent clients.

You Will Learn

1. Understand how electrical stimulation can be used to improve pelvic/urologic/gastrointestinal symptoms in children and adolescents.
2. Apply electrical stimulation to pediatric and adolescent clients to reduce symptoms of overactive bladder, pain, and symptoms related to pelvic floor muscle weakness.
3. Understand the various electrical stimulation parameters that are used to treat pelvic health issues
4. Be aware of resources to support the use of electrical stimulation for clients with pelvic health disorders.

Overall, the audience should leave this lecture with tools for helping clients tomorrow!

Presented By

Presented by Andrea Branas, PT, DPT, MSE

Andrea Branas, PT, DPT, MSE, is an Associate Professor of Instruction and the Director of Clinical Education for the Doctor of Physical Therapy program at Temple University. With over 25 years of clinical experience, Dr. Branas specializes in pediatric and adult pelvic floor disorders, lymphedema, and oncology rehabilitation. She provides expert clinical care at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, focusing on children with complex pelvic and lymphatic conditions.

A recognized leader in the specialty, Dr. Branas serves as one of the Co-Directors of the Pediatric Special Interest Group (SIG) for the APTA Academy of Pelvic Health. Her scholarship includes peer reviewed publications and national presentations on topics such as oncology rehabilitation, lymphedema and pediatric pelvic health.

Dr. Branas received her physical therapy education from the University of the Sciences in Philadelphia and Arcadia University. She brings a unique analytical perspective to her clinical work, holding a Bachelor’s degree in Mathematics from Franklin and Marshall College and a Master of Science in Systems Engineering from the University of Pennsylvania.