Evidence Summary
The role of physical activity in the management of urinary incontinence in acute hospital admissions has not been investigated.
Within nursing homes, reduced physical function has been shown to be associated with increased urinary incontinence
A systematic review from 2008 found three clinical trials where individualized, graded strength and endurance exercises were integrated with behavioural interventions within nursing homes. They found this led to improvements in urinary incontinence, however, the authors were uncertain if physical activity was beneficial when compared to behavioural interventions alone [1]
A randomised control trial from 2012 of 98 nursing home residents in Scandinavia found that 3-month physical activity and activities of daily living training programme found a reduction in urinary leakage in the intervention group [2]
Quality of Evidence
C- Randomised controlled trials but performed within nursing home setting
Strength of Recommendation
2- Some evidence to support physical activity and reduction in urinary incontinence within nursing home settings but some studies multicomponent and difficult to isolate effect of physical activity alone
Conclusion
The role of physical activity in reducing urinary incontinence within acute hospital settings is uncertain but there may be an effect based on association of urinary incontinence with physical activity and benefits seen in nursing homes.
References
1 Fink, H. A., Taylor, B. C., Tacklind, J. W., Rutks, I. R., & Wilt, T. J. Treatment Interventions in Nursing Home Residents With Urinary Incontinence: A Systematic Review of Randomized Trials. Mayo Clinic Proceedings, 2008; 83(12). doi:10.4065/83.12.1332
2 Vinsnes AG, Helbostad JL, Nyrønning S, Harkless GE, Granbo R, Seim A. Effect of physical training on urinary incontinence: a randomized parallel group trial in nursing homes. Clin Interv Aging. 2012;7:45-50. doi:10.2147/CIA.S25326