The National Institute of Health and Clinical Excellence (NICE) has published Clinical Guideline 148 on urinary incontinence in neurological disease: management of lower urinary tract dysfunction in neurological disease.

NICE clinical guidelines set standards for healthcare for people with specific conditions or diseases and the treatments they should receive. A version of the guideline for patients and carers can be downloaded from the NICE web site.

The guideline recommends that detailed assessments should be offered to people who have neurological conditions, including stroke, MS and head and spinal cord injuries, who are experiencing incontinence or other urinary problems. The aim of the guideline is to minimise the distressing effect that bladder symptoms can have on people with neurological conditions, and their families, and to promote active participation in their care.

Healthcare professionals are advised to assess other health issues including bowel and sexual problems, the use of medications and therapies, as well as other factors such as mobility, hand function, cognitive function, social support and lifestyle which may affect how incontinence or other urinary problems can be managed. The guideline recommends that patients are reassessed at least every three years, with more frequent reassessments for some patients depending on their individual circumstances.