Axonics Therapy vs. Conservative Treatment
Comparing lasting solutions for incontinence relief
Understanding Your Treatment Options
Axonics Therapy is an advanced treatment for bladder and bowel incontinence that offers long-lasting relief when conservative methods fall short. While it may not be right for everyone, it provides a distinct advantage for many patients, delivering effective symptom control and improving overall quality of life.
Most people experience a range of symptoms related to bladder or bowel dysfunction, and not all cases require advanced intervention from the start. Initial treatments typically include lifestyle changes, physical therapy, and medications. But when these conservative approaches are not enough, more specialized treatments like Axonics Therapy may be the most effective path forward.
Understanding Your Treatment Options
Axonics Therapy is an advanced treatment for bladder and bowel incontinence that offers long-lasting relief when conservative methods fall short. While it may not be right for everyone, it provides a distinct advantage for many patients, delivering effective symptom control and improving overall quality of life.
Most people experience a range of symptoms related to bladder or bowel dysfunction, and not all cases require advanced intervention from the start. Initial treatments typically include lifestyle changes, physical therapy, and medications. But when these conservative approaches are not enough, more specialized treatments like Axonics Therapy may be the most effective path forward.
Conservative Treatments for Incontinence
Your lifestyle, including your diet and physical movements, plays a crucial role in managing both bowel and urinary incontinence. Many treatment approaches are centered around these lifestyle factors and can yield significant results in certain cases.
Depending on the severity of your condition, a combination of lifestyle modifications and medication may help alleviate symptoms.
Medications
Depending on the type of incontinence, medications may be prescribed to relieve symptoms and support bladder or bowel control.
These drugs work in different ways:
Relax the bladder
Help prevent contractions when the bladder isn’t full, allowing it to hold more urine and reduce urgency.
Ease constipation
Soften stools and promote regular bowel movements, which can reduce bowel incontinence.
Slow down stool movement
Useful for treating loose stools by giving the bowel more time to absorb water and avoid leakage.
Dietary Changes
Your diet can significantly impact symptoms. Avoiding certain foods and drinks that irritate the bladder or bowel can reduce urgency and leakage.
Foods and drinks to avoid may include:
Alcohol
Caffeine
Fatty or fried foods
Spicy dishes
Chocolate (excluding white chocolate)
Tomato-based products
Dairy (especially if lactose-intolerant)
Artificial sweeteners like sorbitol, xylitol, and mannitol
Increasing your fiber intake through whole grains, fruits, vegetables, and beans can also improve digestion and reduce bowel incontinence.
Pelvic Floor Therapy
Pelvic floor therapy focuses on strengthening the muscles that support the bladder, bowel, and pelvic organs. Through guided exercises, such as Kegels, patients can build control and coordination over these muscles. A healthcare provider or physical therapist typically leads the training, often combining it with behavioral strategies like bladder training. These methods are especially helpful in managing urge-related incontinence by gradually increasing the time between bathroom visits and reducing sudden urges.
Referral Process
Healthcare professionals—including urologists, urogynecologists, gastroenterologists, and primary care providers—can refer patients for Axonics Therapy through our online referral form.
We’ll take care of the rest, ensuring a smooth and coordinated experience for both the patient and referring provider.
Injection Treatment
Botulinum toxin (Botox®) injections offer another option for patients with overactive bladder who don’t respond well to medication. The injection is administered directly into the bladder muscle by a trained urologist and works by temporarily blocking the nerve signals that cause involuntary contractions. Although effective, the results are not permanent, and symptoms gradually return over time, requiring repeat injections to maintain relief.
When Conservative Options Aren’t Enough
For some patients, incontinence is caused by faulty nerve signaling between the brain and pelvic organs. In these cases, conservative options may not provide sufficient relief—especially when symptoms are persistent or severe.
That’s where neuromodulation becomes a valuable next step.
Sacral Neuromodulation & Axonics Therapy
Sacral neuromodulation (SNM) involves gentle electrical stimulation of the sacral nerves to restore normal bladder and bowel function. Axonics Therapy is a modern, refined version of SNM offering multiple advantages over earlier systems:
A small, rechargeable implant placed under the skin
Battery life of at least 15 years (vs. ~5 years in older systems)
Wireless charging and an intuitive, handheld remote control
Minimally invasive procedure with short recovery time
Why Patients Trust Northwest Continence Center
We take a science-based, compassionate approach that puts your comfort and results first.
Advanced Axonics Therapy
A minimally invasive solution that restores nerve communication for lasting relief.
Personalized, Science-Based Care
Every treatment plan is tailored to your unique needs using proven medical approaches.
Experienced, Specialized Providers
Our experts are trained in continence-focused procedures and neuromodulation techniques.
Judgment-Free Patient Support
We create a respectful, compassionate environment where you feel safe and heard.
We’re More Than Just a Clinic
We understand that incontinence can be emotional and isolating. That’s why we’re committed to making your experience safe, respectful, and empowering. Every visit is designed to make you feel heard and supported.
Let’s find the right solution together.