{"id":3440,"date":"2021-12-30T04:12:22","date_gmt":"2021-12-30T04:12:22","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/maidenlanemedical.com\/physical-therapy\/?page_id=3440"},"modified":"2026-03-26T06:49:45","modified_gmt":"2026-03-26T11:49:45","slug":"how-does-physical-therapy-help-constipation","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/maidenlanemedical.com\/pelvic-floor-physical-therapy\/how-does-physical-therapy-help-constipation\/","title":{"rendered":"6 Ways Physical Therapy Relieves Constipation"},"content":{"rendered":"<div class=\"wpb-content-wrapper\"><p>[vc_row el_disable_tablet=&#8221;1&#8243; el_disable_mobile=&#8221;1&#8243; css=&#8221;.vc_custom_1669676345878{margin-top: 30px !important;margin-right: 200px !important;margin-left: 200px !important;}&#8221;][vc_column][vc_column_text css=&#8221;.vc_custom_1774519727437{margin-right: 100px !important;margin-left: 100px !important;padding-top: 30px !important;padding-bottom: 30px !important;}&#8221;]<\/p>\n<div style=\"background: #f6f3fb; border: 1px solid #e6e3f3; border-radius: 10px; padding: 25px; margin-bottom: 30px;\">\n<p><strong style=\"color: #6b3fa0; font-size: 22px;\">Topic at a Glance<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Constipation occurs when bowel movements become infrequent or difficult, often defined as fewer than three per week.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Pelvic floor dysfunction and digestive conditions can slow stool movement through the colon, contributing to chronic constipation.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Pelvic floor physical therapy may help improve bowel function by strengthening and relaxing the muscles involved in digestion and elimination.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Treatment approaches may include abdominal massage, biofeedback, exercise, dietary adjustments, and relaxation techniques.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<p>[\/vc_column_text][vc_column_text]<span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">You know the feeling of constipation: a swollen, bloated belly, pressure or lower abdominal pain, and a creeping concern that you haven&#8217;t had a bowel movement in days. If these symptoms sound familiar, you&#8217;re not alone.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Constipation is a common health complaint, affecting around 16% of adults and a third of people aged 60 or older. Most of the time, constipation is temporary.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">However, if you are experiencing painful chronic constipation, you should talk to your doctor at Maiden Lane Medical and ask about<\/span> <a href=\"https:\/\/maidenlanemedical.com\/pelvic-floor-physical-therapy\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">pelvic floor physical therapy<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> for constipation. Our office is conveniently located in Manhattan, NY, and we are ready to help you find relief.<\/span>[\/vc_column_text][vc_single_image image=&#8221;3682&#8243; img_size=&#8221;large&#8221; alignment=&#8221;center&#8221;][vc_column_text]<\/p>\n<h2><b>What Is Constipation?<\/b><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The clinical definition of constipation is when you have fewer than three bowel movements per week. Other signs of constipation include difficulty passing hard, dry, lumpy stools and feeling like your bowel movement isn&#8217;t complete.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Constipation occurs when solid waste products move slowly through your colon. It can be caused by delayed emptying due to pelvic floor disorders like pelvic floor dyssynergia or functional gastrointestinal disorders like irritable bowel syndrome. If your condition is caused by one of these issues, physical therapy for constipation could be an effective solution.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><b>Ways to Relieve Constipation<\/b><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The pelvic floor physical therapists at Maiden Lane Medical offer personalized treatment programs to help improve the function of your lower digestive tract, including bowel motility. Some of the potential therapies include the following:<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><b>Visceral Mobilization<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Palpation of the colon and some \u201cvisceral mobilization,\u201d which feels like an abdominal massage with some simple movements of the pelvis and legs, can often elicit some gurgling and signs of movement in the right direction. Evidence shows that abdominal massage of the ascending, transverse, and descending colons would help decrease abdominal spasticity and assist the bowel in peristalsis movement.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Your trained physical therapist can teach you exercises and self-massage movements to practice at home. You might also try some inversion, propping the buttocks higher than the head, and side-lying positions that make use of gravity to help get things moving.<\/span>[\/vc_column_text][vc_single_image image=&#8221;3683&#8243; img_size=&#8221;large&#8221; alignment=&#8221;center&#8221;][vc_column_text]<\/p>\n<h3><b>Biofeedback<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">People who always strain and have difficulty fully emptying their bowels usually contract and tighten the external anal sphincter rather than relax and open it during defecation. Biofeedback assessment of the pelvic floor can help to assess whether there is an outlet problem due to high tension in the pelvic muscles and external sphincter.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">A pelvic floor physical therapist could help the patients regain the ability to relax external anal muscles while contacting abdominal muscles to assist stool propulsion.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">A review of the importance of fluids and oils in the diet to help lubricate the passage of an \u201ceasy\u201d bowel movement, along with the addition of dietary fiber, such as salads, fruits, and vegetables, and the avoidance of heavy carbs. Imagine the image of a bagel stuck in the colon as an example compared to yogurt sliding through the colon.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><b>Supplements<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">You might also benefit from adding magnesium and vitamin C supplements to your daily routine. These supplements can act as stool softeners and help keep you regular.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><b>Elimination Diet<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">An elimination diet can help ease digestive problems, but it can be daunting to try and figure out where to start. An appointment with a<\/span>\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/maidenlanemedical.com\/services\/nutritionist\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">dietician<\/span><\/a> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">can help you sort through your meal plan and can help you avoid feeling that you have to give up everything you love to eat.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><b>Exercise<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Getting regular, moderate physical activity, such as walking 30 minutes a day, can help get things moving. Daily movement and a few simple exercises help combat all the sitting in today\u2019s world, contributing to slow-moving digestion.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><b>Relaxation<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Stress and tension can definitely play a part in constipation. After all, who doesn\u2019t get constipated after a travel day? Thus, learning and practicing some<\/span> <a href=\"https:\/\/maidenlanemedical.com\/pelvic-floor-physical-therapy\/improving-body-mind-with-breathing-exercises\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">relaxation exercises<\/span><\/a> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">can be extremely helpful in relieving that tension so you can stay regular.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Diaphragmatic breathing could facilitate the activation of the parasympathetic system, which encourages the body to relax and stay in the \u201crest and digest\u201d state. A trained pelvic floor physical therapist could teach the patient how to use diaphragmatic breathing to improve pelvic floor muscle awareness and massage internal organs, like the intestine and stomach.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The pelvic floor physical therapists at Maiden Lane Medical recommend a 25-minute relaxation program called<\/span> <a href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/Physiological-Quieting-Janet-Hulme\/dp\/B00E9JQP7A\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Physiological Quieting<\/span><\/a>. <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Pelvic physical therapist guru, Janet Hulme, created the program, which she provides for free with a Prime Membership on Amazon. Practice relaxation before bedtime for a wonderful deep sleep and an easy bowel movement in the morning.<\/span>[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row el_disable_desktop=&#8221;1&#8243;][vc_column][vc_column_text]<span style=\"font-size: 18px;\">You know the feeling of constipation: a swollen, bloated belly, pressure or lower abdominal pain, and a creeping concern that you haven&#8217;t had a bowel movement in days. If these symptoms sound familiar, you&#8217;re not alone.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 18px;\">Constipation is a common health complaint, affecting around 16% of adults and a third of people aged 60 or older. Most of the time, constipation is temporary.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 18px;\">However, if you are experiencing painful chronic constipation, you should talk to your doctor at Maiden Lane Medical and ask about<\/span> <a href=\"https:\/\/maidenlanemedical.com\/pelvic-floor-physical-therapy\/\"><span style=\"font-size: 18px;\">pelvic floor physical therapy<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-size: 18px;\"> for constipation. Our office is conveniently located in Manhattan, NY, and we are ready to help you find relief.<\/span>[\/vc_column_text][vc_single_image image=&#8221;3682&#8243; img_size=&#8221;large&#8221; alignment=&#8221;center&#8221;][vc_column_text]<\/p>\n<h2 style=\"font-size: 23px;\"><b>What Is Constipation?<\/b><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 18px;\">The clinical definition of constipation is when you have fewer than three bowel movements per week. Other signs of constipation include difficulty passing hard, dry, lumpy stools and feeling like your bowel movement isn&#8217;t complete.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 18px;\">Constipation occurs when solid waste products move slowly through your colon. It can be caused by delayed emptying due to pelvic floor disorders like pelvic floor dyssynergia or functional gastrointestinal disorders like irritable bowel syndrome. If your condition is caused by one of these issues, physical therapy for constipation could be an effective solution.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2 style=\"font-size: 23px;\"><b>Ways to Relieve Constipation<\/b><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 18px;\">The pelvic floor physical therapists at Maiden Lane Medical offer personalized treatment programs to help improve the function of your lower digestive tract, including bowel motility. Some of the potential therapies include the following:<\/span><\/p>\n<h3 style=\"font-size: 20px;\"><b>Visceral Mobilization<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 18px;\">Palpation of the colon and some \u201cvisceral mobilization,\u201d which feels like an abdominal massage with some simple movements of the pelvis and legs, can often elicit some gurgling and signs of movement in the right direction. Evidence shows that abdominal massage of the ascending, transverse, and descending colons would help decrease abdominal spasticity and assist the bowel in peristalsis movement.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 18px;\">Your trained physical therapist can teach you exercises and self-massage movements to practice at home. You might also try some inversion, propping the buttocks higher than the head, and side-lying positions that make use of gravity to help get things moving.<\/span>[\/vc_column_text][vc_single_image image=&#8221;3683&#8243; img_size=&#8221;large&#8221; alignment=&#8221;center&#8221;][vc_column_text]<\/p>\n<h3 style=\"font-size: 20px;\"><b>Biofeedback<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 18px;\">People who always strain and have difficulty fully emptying their bowels usually contract and tighten the external anal sphincter rather than relax and open it during defecation. Biofeedback assessment of the pelvic floor can help to assess whether there is an outlet problem due to high tension in the pelvic muscles and external sphincter.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 18px;\">A pelvic floor physical therapist could help the patients regain the ability to relax external anal muscles while contacting abdominal muscles to assist stool propulsion.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 18px;\">A review of the importance of fluids and oils in the diet to help lubricate the passage of an \u201ceasy\u201d bowel movement, along with the addition of dietary fiber, such as salads, fruits, and vegetables, and the avoidance of heavy carbs. Imagine the image of a bagel stuck in the colon as an example compared to yogurt sliding through the colon.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h3 style=\"font-size: 20px;\"><b>Supplements<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 18px;\">You might also benefit from adding magnesium and vitamin C supplements to your daily routine. These supplements can act as stool softeners and help keep you regular.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3 style=\"font-size: 20px;\"><b>Elimination Diet<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 18px;\">An elimination diet can help ease digestive problems, but it can be daunting to try and figure out where to start. An appointment with a<\/span>\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/maidenlanemedical.com\/services\/nutritionist\/\"><span style=\"font-size: 18px;\">dietician<\/span><\/a> <span style=\"font-size: 18px;\">can help you sort through your meal plan and can help you avoid feeling that you have to give up everything you love to eat.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3 style=\"font-size: 20px;\"><b>Exercise<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 18px;\">Getting regular, moderate physical activity, such as walking 30 minutes a day, can help get things moving. Daily movement and a few simple exercises help combat all the sitting in today\u2019s world, contributing to slow-moving digestion.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h3 style=\"font-size: 20px;\"><b>Relaxation<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 18px;\">Stress and tension can definitely play a part in constipation. After all, who doesn\u2019t get constipated after a travel day? Thus, learning and practicing some<\/span> <a href=\"https:\/\/maidenlanemedical.com\/pelvic-floor-physical-therapy\/improving-body-mind-with-breathing-exercises\/\"><span style=\"font-size: 18px;\">relaxation exercises<\/span><\/a> <span style=\"font-size: 18px;\">can be extremely helpful in relieving that tension so you can stay regular.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 18px;\">Diaphragmatic breathing could facilitate the activation of the parasympathetic system, which encourages the body to relax and stay in the \u201crest and digest\u201d state. A trained pelvic floor physical therapist could teach the patient how to use diaphragmatic breathing to improve pelvic floor muscle awareness and massage internal organs, like the intestine and stomach.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 18px;\">The pelvic floor physical therapists at Maiden Lane Medical recommend a 25-minute relaxation program called<\/span> <a href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/Physiological-Quieting-Janet-Hulme\/dp\/B00E9JQP7A\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-size: 18px;\">Physiological Quieting<\/span><\/a>. <span style=\"font-size: 18px;\">Pelvic physical therapist guru, Janet Hulme, created the program, which she provides for free with a Prime Membership on Amazon. Practice relaxation before bedtime for a wonderful deep sleep and an easy bowel movement in the morning.<\/span>[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row full_width=&#8221;stretch_row_content_no_spaces&#8221; equal_height=&#8221;yes&#8221; el_disable_tablet=&#8221;1&#8243; el_disable_mobile=&#8221;1&#8243; thegem_shadow_color=&#8221;rgba(0,0,0,0.15)&#8221; thegem_shaow_horizontal=&#8221;10&#8243; thegem_shaow_vertical=&#8221;10&#8243; thegem_shaow_blur=&#8221;10&#8243; thegem_shaow_spread=&#8221;10&#8243; thegem_enable_shadow=&#8221;true&#8221; css=&#8221;.vc_custom_1669676916543{margin-top: 30px !important;margin-bottom: 30px !important;background-color: #9d75a7 !important;}&#8221;][vc_column][vc_column_text]<\/p>\n<h4 style=\"text-align: center; color: white;\">Find out how our doctors can help you!<\/h4>\n<p>[\/vc_column_text]<style type=\"text\/css\">.thegem-button-69d38e2bde2489471 .gem-button svg {fill: #ffffff;}.thegem-button-69d38e2bde2489471 .gem-button:hover svg {fill: #ffffff;}<\/style><div class=\"gem-button-container gem-button-position-center thegem-button-69d38e2bde2489471     gem-button-with-separator\"  ><div class=\"gem-button-separator gem-button-separator-type-strong-double\"><div class=\"gem-button-separator-holder\"><div class=\"gem-button-separator-line\" style=\"border-color: #ffffff;\"><\/div><\/div><div class=\"gem-button-separator-button\"><a class=\"gem-button gem-button-size-large gem-button-style-outline gem-button-text-weight-normal gem-button-border-3\" data-ll-effect=\"drop-right-without-wrap\" style=\"border-radius: 0px;border-color: #ffffff;color: #ffffff;\" onmouseleave=\"this.style.borderColor='#ffffff';this.style.backgroundColor='transparent';this.style.color='#ffffff';\" onmouseenter=\"this.style.borderColor='#ffffff';this.style.backgroundColor='#21778e';this.style.color='#ffffff';\" href=\"https:\/\/patients.betterhealthcare.co\/booking\/facilities\/3779\/appointment-type?utm_source=client&#038;utm_medium=website&#038;utm_campaign=310\" target=\"_blank\">Book Appointment<\/a><\/div><div class=\"gem-button-separator-holder\"><div class=\"gem-button-separator-line\" style=\"border-color: #ffffff;\"><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div> [\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row full_width=&#8221;stretch_row_content_no_spaces&#8221; equal_height=&#8221;yes&#8221; el_disable_desktop=&#8221;1&#8243; thegem_shadow_color=&#8221;rgba(0,0,0,0.15)&#8221; thegem_shaow_horizontal=&#8221;10&#8243; thegem_shaow_vertical=&#8221;10&#8243; thegem_shaow_blur=&#8221;10&#8243; thegem_shaow_spread=&#8221;10&#8243; thegem_enable_shadow=&#8221;true&#8221; css=&#8221;.vc_custom_1669679486678{margin-top: 0px !important;margin-bottom: 30px !important;background-color: #9d75a7 !important;}&#8221;][vc_column][vc_column_text]<\/p>\n<h4 style=\"text-align: center; color: white;\">Find out how our doctors can help you!<\/h4>\n<p>[\/vc_column_text]<style type=\"text\/css\">.thegem-button-69d38e2bde2f31727 .gem-button svg {fill: #ffffff;}.thegem-button-69d38e2bde2f31727 .gem-button:hover svg {fill: #ffffff;}<\/style><div class=\"gem-button-container gem-button-position-center thegem-button-69d38e2bde2f31727     gem-button-with-separator\"  ><div class=\"gem-button-separator gem-button-separator-type-strong-double\"><div class=\"gem-button-separator-holder\"><div class=\"gem-button-separator-line\" style=\"border-color: #ffffff;\"><\/div><\/div><div class=\"gem-button-separator-button\"><a class=\"gem-button gem-button-size-large gem-button-style-outline gem-button-text-weight-normal gem-button-border-3\" data-ll-effect=\"drop-right-without-wrap\" style=\"border-radius: 0px;border-color: #ffffff;color: #ffffff;\" onmouseleave=\"this.style.borderColor='#ffffff';this.style.backgroundColor='transparent';this.style.color='#ffffff';\" onmouseenter=\"this.style.borderColor='#ffffff';this.style.backgroundColor='#21778e';this.style.color='#ffffff';\" href=\"https:\/\/patients.betterhealthcare.co\/booking\/facilities\/3779\/appointment-type?utm_source=client&#038;utm_medium=website&#038;utm_campaign=310\" target=\"_blank\">Book Appointment<\/a><\/div><div class=\"gem-button-separator-holder\"><div class=\"gem-button-separator-line\" style=\"border-color: #ffffff;\"><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div> [\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row el_disable_tablet=&#8221;1&#8243; el_disable_mobile=&#8221;1&#8243; css=&#8221;.vc_custom_1669679004635{margin-top: 0px !important;margin-right: 200px !important;margin-left: 200px !important;}&#8221;][vc_column][vc_column_text]<\/p>\n<h2><b>When Should I See a Physical Therapist for Constipation?<\/b><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">A pelvic floor physical therapist offers nonpharmaceutical treatment to address underlying pelvic floor issues that contribute to infrequent bowel movements and other uncomfortable symptoms.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">For example, suppose you have a pelvic floor disorder that interferes with your bowel function. In that case, physical therapy can address issues in your pelvic floor muscles, improving blood flow and pelvic floor muscle strength to restore healthy digestive function.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><b>Constipation Facts<\/b><\/h2>\n<p><b>Other common causes:<\/b><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Age<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Pregnancy<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Medications<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Supplements<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Traveling<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Dietary changes<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><b>Prevention:<\/b><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Eat a high-fiber diet<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Exercise moderately every day<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Drink plenty of water<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Move your bowels at the same time every day<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><b>Other Treatments:<\/b><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Over-the-counter laxative use<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Prescription medicine<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Surgery<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If you experience chronic constipation, contact Maiden Lane Medical today to schedule an appointment with a pelvic floor physical therapist. Our specialists in Manhattan, NY are ready to give you the assistance you need!<\/span>[\/vc_column_text][vc_column_text css=&#8221;.vc_custom_1669678508305{margin-top: 50px !important;}&#8221;]<\/p>\n<h4 style=\"font-size: 22px;\"><strong>Medically Reviewed By<\/strong><\/h4>\n<p>[\/vc_column_text][vc_column_text css=&#8221;.vc_custom_1669678496396{margin-top: -20px !important;}&#8221;]<\/p>\n<p style=\"font-size: 18px;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/maidenlanemedical.com\/profile\/kate-zhang-dpt\/\"><strong>Kate Zhang, DPT<\/strong><br \/>\n<strong>Board Certified Pelvic Physical Therapist<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n<p>[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row el_disable_desktop=&#8221;1&#8243; css=&#8221;.vc_custom_1669677720529{margin-top: 30px !important;}&#8221;][vc_column][vc_column_text]<\/p>\n<h2 style=\"font-size: 23px;\"><b>When Should I See a Physical Therapist for Constipation?<\/b><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 18px;\">A pelvic floor physical therapist offers nonpharmaceutical treatment to address underlying pelvic floor issues that contribute to infrequent bowel movements and other uncomfortable symptoms.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 18px;\">For example, suppose you have a pelvic floor disorder that interferes with your bowel function. In that case, physical therapy can address issues in your pelvic floor muscles, improving blood flow and pelvic floor muscle strength to restore healthy digestive function.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h2 style=\"font-size: 23px;\"><b>Constipation Facts<\/b><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 18px;\"><b>Other common causes:<\/b><\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-size: 18px;\">Age<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-size: 18px;\">Pregnancy<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-size: 18px;\">Medications<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-size: 18px;\">Supplements<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-size: 18px;\">Traveling<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-size: 18px;\"> changes<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 18px;\"><b>Prevention:<\/b><\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-size: 18px;\">Eat a high-fiber diet<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-size: 18px;\">Exercise moderately every day<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-size: 18px;\">Drink plenty of water<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-size: 18px;\">Move your bowels at the same time every day<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 18px;\"><b>Other Treatments:<\/b><\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-size: 18px;\">Over-the-counter laxative use<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-size: 18px;\">Prescription medicine<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-size: 18px;\">Surgery<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 18px;\">If you experience chronic constipation, contact Maiden Lane Medical today to schedule an appointment with a pelvic floor physical therapist. Our specialists in Manhattan, NY are ready to give you the assistance you need!<\/span>[\/vc_column_text][vc_column_text css=&#8221;.vc_custom_1669678508305{margin-top: 50px !important;}&#8221;]<\/p>\n<h4 style=\"font-size: 22px;\"><strong>Medically Reviewed By<\/strong><\/h4>\n<p>[\/vc_column_text][vc_column_text css=&#8221;.vc_custom_1669679430519{margin-top: -20px !important;margin-bottom: 30px !important;}&#8221;]<\/p>\n<p style=\"font-size: 18px;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/maidenlanemedical.com\/profile\/kate-zhang-dpt\/\"><strong>Kate Zhang, DPT<\/strong><br \/>\n<strong>Board Certified Pelvic Physical Therapist<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n<p>[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text css=&#8221;.vc_custom_1774525770996{margin-right: 80px !important;margin-bottom: 100px !important;margin-left: 80px !important;}&#8221;]<\/p>\n<h2 style=\"text-align: center; margin: 40px 0 20px;\">FAQs About <strong>Constipation and the Benefits of Physical Therapy<\/strong><\/h2>\n<p><!-- FAQ Item --><\/p>\n<details style=\"background: #f3f3f3; border-radius: 8px; margin-bottom: 10px; padding: 15px;\">\n<summary style=\"cursor: pointer; font-weight: 500;\">What is considered constipation?<\/summary>\n<p style=\"margin-top: 10px;\">Constipation is typically defined as having fewer than three bowel movements per week. It may also involve hard or dry stools, difficulty passing stool, abdominal discomfort, bloating, or the feeling that bowel movements are incomplete.<\/p>\n<\/details>\n<p><!-- FAQ Item --><\/p>\n<details style=\"background: #f3f3f3; border-radius: 8px; margin-bottom: 10px; padding: 15px;\">\n<summary style=\"cursor: pointer; font-weight: 500;\">How can physical therapy help relieve constipation?<\/summary>\n<p style=\"margin-top: 10px;\">Pelvic floor physical therapy can help improve bowel function by training the muscles involved in digestion and elimination. Therapy focuses on improving muscle coordination, blood flow, and relaxation of the pelvic floor, which can help promote normal bowel movements.<\/p>\n<\/details>\n<p><!-- FAQ Item --><\/p>\n<details style=\"background: #f3f3f3; border-radius: 8px; margin-bottom: 10px; padding: 15px;\">\n<summary style=\"cursor: pointer; font-weight: 500;\">What is visceral mobilization?<\/summary>\n<p style=\"margin-top: 10px;\">Visceral mobilization is a hands-on therapy technique similar to abdominal massage. It involves gentle manipulation of the abdomen and surrounding tissues to stimulate bowel movement, reduce abdominal tension, and support the natural movement of the colon.<\/p>\n<\/details>\n<p><!-- FAQ Item --><\/p>\n<details style=\"background: #f3f3f3; border-radius: 8px; margin-bottom: 10px; padding: 15px;\">\n<summary style=\"cursor: pointer; font-weight: 500;\">What is biofeedback therapy for constipation?<\/summary>\n<p style=\"margin-top: 10px;\">Biofeedback helps patients learn how to properly coordinate pelvic floor muscles during bowel movements. Many people with constipation unknowingly tighten the muscles that should relax during defecation. Biofeedback therapy teaches patients how to relax these muscles while engaging abdominal muscles to help pass stool more easily.<\/p>\n<\/details>\n<p><!-- FAQ Item --><\/p>\n<details style=\"background: #f3f3f3; border-radius: 8px; margin-bottom: 10px; padding: 15px;\">\n<summary style=\"cursor: pointer; font-weight: 500;\">What lifestyle changes can help improve constipation?<\/summary>\n<p style=\"margin-top: 10px;\">Several lifestyle habits can support digestive health, including:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Eating a high-fiber diet with fruits, vegetables, and whole foods.<\/li>\n<li>Drinking enough water throughout the day.<\/li>\n<li>Engaging in regular physical activity, such as walking.<\/li>\n<li>Managing stress and practicing relaxation techniques.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p style=\"margin-top: 10px;\">These changes can help improve bowel motility and reduce constipation symptoms.<\/p>\n<\/details>\n<p><!-- FAQ Item --><\/p>\n<details style=\"background: #f3f3f3; border-radius: 8px; margin-bottom: 10px; padding: 15px;\">\n<summary style=\"cursor: pointer; font-weight: 500;\">When should someone consider physical therapy for constipation?<\/summary>\n<p style=\"margin-top: 10px;\">Physical therapy may be beneficial if chronic constipation is linked to pelvic floor dysfunction or muscle coordination issues. A pelvic floor physical therapist can evaluate your symptoms and develop a personalized treatment plan to improve bowel function and relieve discomfort.<\/p>\n<\/details>\n<p>[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column][\/vc_row]<\/p>\n<\/div>","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>[vc_row el_disable_tablet=&#8221;1&#8243; el_disable_mobile=&#8221;1&#8243; css=&#8221;.vc_custom_1669676345878{margin-top: 30px !important;margin-right: 200px !important;margin-left: 200px !important;}&#8221;][vc_column][vc_column_text css=&#8221;.vc_custom_1774519727437{margin-right: 100px !important;margin-left: 100px !important;padding-top: 30px !important;padding-bottom: 30px !important;}&#8221;] Topic&#8230;<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":3683,"parent":0,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"","meta":{"_seopress_robots_primary_cat":"","_seopress_titles_title":"6 Ways Physical Therapy Relieves Constipation | NYC","_seopress_titles_desc":"A summary of how physical therapy can help alleviate constipation. 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