Constipation is a common and often uncomfortable condition that affects people of all ages. It's characterized by infrequent or difficult bowel movements. In some cases, it can lead to a range of other issues - bloating, abdominal pain and/or bladder dysfunction.

What are characteristics of a normal bowel movement?

• stool passes easily in under ten minutes without straining, and with a frequency of between three times/day and one time/every 3 days

• well formed, smooth, log-like stools

• a feeling that you have emptied completely

• the ability to control gas

• no need to repeatedly wipe yourself clean

• no pain prior, during or after bowel movement

• no need for laxatives or enemas

• no blood or mucous

Pelvic Floor Dysfunction May Cause Constipation

The pelvic floor plays an important role in maintaining bowel regularity and continence. When the pelvic floor muscles are weak, tight or uncoordinated, this may lead to constipation. Extra stool in the bowel can put pressure on the uterus and bladder causing frequent urination and a feeling of urgency.

Specifically,

• Pelvic floor muscle weakness may result in less than adequate support to the rectum and surrounding structures, making it difficult to effectively evacuate stool.

• Pelvic floor muscle tightness may hinder the normal movement of stool through the rectum, causing it to become trapped.

• Lack of coordination between the pelvic floor and other muscles, involved in bowel movements, may be disrupted, leading to incomplete evacuation.

Pelvic Floor Therapy Can Help

Pelvic floor therapy, including assessment and treatment, can help alleviate constipation. How?

Muscle Training: pelvic floor therapists can help you relax your pelvic floor muscles to allow the stool to exit. They will teach exercises to strengthen weak pelvic floor muscles.

Coordination: therapy, in a sense, “educates” your pelvic floor so that it knows when to relax and properly push.

Biofeedback: biofeedback is a helpful tool. It allows you to see, in real-time, your muscle activity, leading to more effective muscle control and coordination.

Balloon training: this training technique teaches you how to understand urges so you are able to feel when you have to go to the bathroom.

Manual Therapy: manual techniques such as massage or myofascial release, can be used to address specific muscle tightness or trigger points within the pelvic floor.

Relaxation Techniques: learning how to relax your pelvic floor can reduce tension, facilitating easier passage of stool.

Diet and Lifestyle Guidance: dietary and lifestyle changes can aid in regular bowel movements. This may include recommendations for fiber intake, hydration, and posture during bowel movements.

Behavioral Modification: you will be surprised at how daily habits impact your bowel movements. A morning routine - breakfast, abdominal massage, warm water, toileting positioning, proper pushing - can help reduce or eliminate constipation

What are the benefits of pelvic floor therapy?

It is non-invasive.  Non-invasive and drug-free makes it suitable for a wide range of patients.

It is a customized treatment. The therapy plan is tailored to the individual, ensuring the most effective approach for their unique issue.

It is a long-term solution.  Pelvic floor therapy aims to address the root causes of constipation, offering long-term relief.

If you've been struggling with constipation, consider pelvic floor therapy. It is a holistic approach, targeting both physical and emotional aspects of the condition.  Contact Solstice Physiotherapy and take the first step toward long-term relief.  Email us at info@solsticept.com or call (929) 269-2505 to schedule a free, 15-minute consultation.