Breaking the Cycle: Addressing Constipation with Pelvic Health Physical Therapy
Constipation affects an estimated 16% of Americans, with higher rates in older adults. This common issue significantly impacts quality of life.
Functional Constipation is one of the most common forms of constipation. This often involves dyssynergia in the muscles, which is when the pelvic floor muscles contract and tighten instead of lengthening with defecation. This can make it harder to pass stool, with average times exceeding over 5 minutes on the toilet. Over the counter options can help soften stools, but they don't address the dysfunction in the muscles creating a chronic cycle that greatly impacts millions of Americans.
Why Dry Needling?
Dry needling involves inserting thin needles into trigger points in muscles to reduce tension and improve function. For constipation, it can target pelvic floor muscles, promoting relaxation and better bowel movement.
Other Treatments
Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy has been documented in the literature to be extremely effective at addressing this dysfunction in the muscles. Dyssynergic defecation occurs when pelvic floor muscles fail to relax or properly coordinate during a bowel movement, creating strain and discomfort. Below are some treatment options that can be used in pelvic floor physical therapy in addition to dry needling:
Manual Therapy: Techniques targeting the puborectalis muscle help release tightness and restore its natural function, crucial for improving rectal angle and easing defecation.
Coordination Training: Through guided exercises, therapists retrain the pelvic floor to work synchronously, improving bowel habits over time.
Biofeedback: Patients learn muscle control with real-time feedback, identifying when they need to relax or engage specific areas.
Balloon Therapy: A specialized tool for desensitizing the rectum and practicing correct defecation mechanics, ideal for sensory and coordination improvements.
Pelvic health PT combines these targeted approaches to restore normal function and help patients find relief.
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