Constipation

Irregular, infrequent or difficult elimination of stool that does not have an underlying medical disorder can often be addressed by physiotherapy.

Many people with constipation have anismus and are unknowingly contracting their sphincters when they are trying to have a bowel movement. Research shows that based on verbal and written instruction, 75% of women are unable to contract and relax their pelvic floor muscle correctly. We do not have the research for men, but our clinical experience shows it to be about the same. Biofeedback is a useful tool for both diagnosis and treatment.

Treatment may include pelvic floor muscle exercises (Kegels) for both contraction and relaxation of the pelvic floor, biofeedback, real time ultrasound, and behavioural changes involving diet and toileting patterns.