What is it? 

Constipation is defined as having less than 3-4 bowel movements per week.  

What are the symptoms? 

• Even if you are having a bowel movement, you may not feel complete emptying, or the consistency of your stool may feel hard or difficult to pass.

• Sometimes with constipation, there is “overflow” or loose stool that comes out intermittently due to a back up of stool that cannot properly exit the body.

• You may have abdominal cramping, feel bloating, or you may have symptoms of GERD.

Why should I address this?

Straining to have a bowl movement can create pressure down the chain and lead to other pelvic floor conditions such as tension to the pelvic muscles, pain, or prolapse. Chronic constipation may also be associated with increased inflammation in the body or hormonal issues, due to the lack of clearing waste products.

How can physical therapy help?

Managing toileting habits, posture, breathing and coordination of the pelvic floor muscles can play a significant role in improving ease with elimination. Your therapist can also instruct in abdominal massage to aid in the digestive process. Stiffness in the hips and spine, as well as scoliosis can also play a role in constipation. Your therapist will design an individualized treatment plan for you, and also refer you to a specialist if it seems that you may benefit from further workup.