Relieving Constipation
Relieve Your Constipation with Expert Physical Therapy in New York City
A physical therapist who specializes in treating pelvic floor dysfunction can improve constipation in a variety of ways. First, the physical therapist needs to be able to evaluate and examine underlying muscle and nerve dysfunctions that interfere with normal bowel function. This examination involves an internal rectal exam where the physical therapist evaluates the three layers of muscles and associated nerves.
The physical therapists at Schafer Physical Therapy PLLC will also evaluate the thoracic spine, lumbar spine, pelvis, hips, and lower extremity as they can also influence pelvic floor dysfunctions. The following treatment is often medication-free and involves a combination of manual therapy techniques, exercises, biofeedback/neuromuscular re-education, and lifestyle education.
Addressing Musculoskeletal/Biomechanical Dysfunctions
Releasing tight muscles: A well trained physical therapist uses manual therapy, including internal and external techniques, mobilizations and stretching exercises to relax tight pelvic floor muscles, which can obstruct stool passage.
Strengthening weak muscles: For cases involving muscle weakness or pelvic organ prolapse, any muscle that attaches to the pelvis may need to be strengthened. This may include resistance exercises for the abdominals, obliques, internal pelvic floor muscles, gluteal muscles, and many others. All of these muscles can help support pelvic organs and improve function.
Improving coordination through biofeedback/neuromuscular re-education (dyssynergic defecation): A common issue is when the muscles contract instead of relaxing during a bowel movement. Therapists can retrain the muscles to relax and coordinate with abdominal pressure using exercises and manual techniques.
Retraining Bowel Mechanics and Habits
Proper bathroom techniques: Physical therapists teach optimal posture for bowel movements, such as elevating the feet with a squatty potty (or a similar stool) to straighten the rectal angle, allowing for easier passage of stool.
Bowel habit education: Therapists work with patients to establish regular bowel routines and encourage not ignoring the urge to go, which helps prevent stool from becoming hard and dry.
Stimulating Digestion and Motility
Visceral mobilization: hands-on abdominal and organ massage technique helps improve the mobility of the intestines and other abdominal organs, which can stimulate gut motility (peristalsis) and reduce bloating and discomfort.
Breathing techniques: Diaphragmatic breathing may be needed to help facilitate parasympathetic nervous system response, promoting relaxation of the abdominal, hip and pelvic floor muscles. Proper relaxation will help the evacuation process.
Lifestyle Modifications
Dietary and hydration advice: Pelvic Floor Physical Therapists provide guidance on ways to improve diet such as increasing fiber intake (ex: prunes, fruits, vegetables) and the importance of adequate hydration to soften stool and promote regularity.
Consistent physical activity: Aerobic exercise is a fantastic way to stimulate the bowels and improve overall digestive function. The physical therapists can help you ease into an achievable exercise program that is not overwhelming.
By addressing the root muscular and functional causes of constipation, pelvic floor physical therapy offers a long-term, non-pharmacological solution for lasting relief. Please click the buttons below to schedule a one hour evaluation in clinic or a free 15 minute teleconsultation!
