Pittsburgh Bowel Problems

Constipation and Fecal Incontinence

Did you know that constipation is actually the #1 GI complaint in the US? Constipation is defined as having a bowel movement fewer than three times per week, but it can also include symptoms such as abdominal discomfort and difficulty with passing stools or initiating bowel movements. Fecal incontinence often goes hand-in-hand with chronic constipation, and can result in a minor amount of stool leakage or a larger amount.

Common symptoms:

• Bowel movement occurring fewer than 3 times per week
• Difficulty with initiation of bowel movements, often termed dyssynergic defecation
• Abdominal bloating or pain
• Hard or difficult to pass stools
• Overwhelming urgency to empty bowels
• Leakage of stool, either small or large amount, and can include liquid or firm stool

Treatment techniques that we use to help you get better:

1. Behavioral education including: improving daily bowel regimen, proper positioning and breathing for bowel movement, fiber assessment and reducing foods that can contribute to constipation, self massage for improving colonic response
2. Internal assessment of pelvic floor muscles for strength, coordination and hypertonicity (overly tight or active muscles)
3. Manual techniques such as: internal trigger point release of pelvic floor muscles, external trigger point release of supporting musculature, skin rolling and fascia release of abdominal and pelvic region