Complementary and alternative therapies as treatment approaches for interstitial cystitis

Abstract

The management of interstitial cystitis (IC) is predominantly the reduction of the symptoms of frequency, urgency, and pain. Multimodal treatment approaches for IC are helpful in customizing therapy for individual patients. Complementary and alternative therapies are a quintessential addition to the therapeutic armamentarium and frequently include dietary modification, nutraceuticals, bladder training, neuromodulation, stress reduction, and sex therapy. Dietary modification involves elimination of bladder irritants, fluid regulation, and a bowel regimen. Nutraceuticals studied for the treatment of IC include calcium glycerophosphate, L-arginine, mucopolysaccharides, bioflavinoids, and Chinese herbs. Bladder training is effective after pain reduction. The neuromodulation of high-tone pelvic-floor muscle dysfunction is achieved with physical therapy and acupuncture. Stress reduction and sex therapy are best administered by a qualified stress manager and sex therapist. Multimodal, nonconventional management may add efficacy to the treatment of IC.

Figure 1

Normal bladder. GAG, glycosaminoglycans. Illustration courtesy of C. Lowell Parsons, MD.

Figure 2

Normal control of micturition.

Figure 3

Control of micturition in neurologic and inflammatory disease.

Figure 4

Intravaginal Thiele myofascial massage. Reproduced from Urogenital Manipulation by Jean-Pierre Barral, with permission of Eastland Press, P.O. Box 99749, Seattle, WA 98199. Copyright 1993. All rights reserved.