Bed Wetting / Parent Education

Bedwetting Support Through Physical Therapy: A Guide for Parents

Is your child still wetting the bed beyond the typical age for nighttime dryness? You're not alone—and you're not doing anything wrong. Bedwetting (nocturnal enuresis) affects millions of families and can be a source of frustration, worry, and disrupted sleep. The good news? Physical therapy offers a gentle, effective, and educational approach to help your child gain bladder control and build confidence.

Understanding Bedwetting

Bedwetting is more than just a developmental delay—it can be influenced by a variety of physical and behavioral factors. These may include:

• Weak or poorly coordinated pelvic floor muscles
• Delayed bladder maturity or capacity
• Poor posture and core muscle imbalances
• Chronic constipation
• Improper voiding habits during the day
• Family history of enuresis

While many children do outgrow bedwetting, persistent issues can impact self-esteem, limit social activities (like sleepovers or camps), and cause stress for the entire family. That’s where physical therapy can help.

How Physical Therapy Helps with Bedwetting

Physical therapists—especially those trained in pediatric pelvic health—are skilled at evaluating the musculoskeletal and neuromuscular components that contribute to bladder control. Using a kid-friendly, compassionate approach, they design customized programs that may include:

✅ Pelvic Floor Muscle Training

Children learn how to find, strengthen, and coordinate the muscles that control the bladder. Sessions are adapted to be age-appropriate and engaging.

✅ Bladder & Bowel Education

Your therapist will help your child understand healthy voiding habits and the importance of regular bathroom routines. Parents are educated on how to support these habits at home.

✅ Postural & Core Strengthening

Weak posture or poor core stability can contribute to bladder dysfunction. Exercises target the muscles that help support healthy urinary function.

✅ Constipation Management

Many children with bedwetting also experience constipation. Therapists provide guidance on diet, positioning, and toileting to improve bowel regularity—often a key piece of the puzzle.

✅ Biofeedback (if age-appropriate)

Some clinics use child-friendly biofeedback tools to help kids visualize how their muscles are working, making it easier to learn control.

Parent Education is Key

We believe that informed parents are empowered parents. That’s why we take time to educate you on:

• The causes of bedwetting (and what it isn’t—your child is not lazy!)
• Healthy routines around hydration, diet, and toileting
• How to encourage progress without shame or pressure
• Signs of improvement and when to celebrate milestones

You’ll leave each session not only with exercises for your child, but also practical strategies you can apply at home.

When to Seek Help

If your child is over the age of 5 and still experiencing regular nighttime accidents, or if bedwetting returns after a dry period, physical therapy may be appropriate. It’s especially helpful if your child also struggles with constipation, urgency, or daytime wetting.

Let’s Work Together Toward Dry Nights and Happy Mornings

Bedwetting is a challenge—but it’s one we can face together. Our physical therapy team offers caring, personalized support for both your child and your family. Contact our Encinitas, Coastal Carlsbad or Solana Beach office today to schedule an assessment and learn how we can help your child thrive with confidence.