Irritable Bowel Syndrome Relief: How Pelvic Physical Therapy Can Help You
Introduction
Feeling trapped (both physically and mentally) by the constant discomfort of Irritable Bowel Syndrome? You're not alone, and there's a solution you might not have considered yet. Pelvic physical therapy offers another approach to managing IBS symptoms effectively and naturally.
Understanding Irritable Bowel Syndrome
What Is IBS?
Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is a common gastrointestinal disorder affecting the large intestine. Symptoms often include cramping, abdominal pain, bloating, gas, diarrhea, and constipation.
Why Traditional Methods May Fall Short
Many people turn to diet changes or medications, but these solutions don't always provide the relief they’re looking for. Understanding the root cause is essential for true management and relief.
The Pelvic Floor Connection
How the Pelvic Floor Affects Digestion
The pelvic floor is a group of muscles supporting the bladder, bowel, and reproductive organs. Dysfunction in these muscles can directly impact bowel movements and gastrointestinal comfort. For example, if these muscles are tight, they can cause a back up in the rectum and colon due to an inability to evacuate the stool properly.
Learn the benefits of abdominal massage for constipation relief and improving bowel motility.
Signs of Pelvic Floor Dysfunction
Feeling of incomplete evacuation
Straining during defecation
Urgency or frequent need to use the restroom
Pelvic Physical Therapy: A Holistic Approach
What Is Pelvic Physical Therapy?
Pelvic physical therapy focuses on strengthening, relaxing, and improving the coordination the pelvic floor muscles. However the more unique aspect to pelvic floor physical therapy that is especially helpful for IBS is the full body approach to treatment. In addition to work on the pelvic muscles, they also take into consideration how diet, stress, sleep, and the nervous system play a role.
Techniques Used
Coordination Training Pelvic Floor: Exercises might involve training to learn to contract and relax the pelvic floor muscles to better facilitate better bowel evacuation.
Manual Therapy: Hands-on techniques to relieve muscle tension both in the pelvic floor and abdominal region.
Relaxation Exercises: Breathing techniques, stretches, and other hands on techniques or exercises to activate your “relaxing nervous system” (the parasympathetic nervous system), which helps with bowel regulation.
Sensation training: Neuromotor training with a pelvic PT can help to normalize sensation in the rectal canal which can be compromised in IBS.
Benefits of Pelvic Physical Therapy for IBS
Symptom Relief
Reduces abdominal pain and bloating
Improves bowel regularity
Decreases urgency and frequency
Enhances Quality of Life
By addressing some of the root causes and taking a holistic full body approach, pelvic PT helps you regain control over your body again without the constant worry of IBS symptoms. You won’t have to worry about how long it will take you to have a bowel movement, or have to search for every bathroom at your next stop.
Getting Started with Pelvic PT
What to Expect in Your First Session
Full body Assessment: A physical evaluation of your pelvic floor function as well as connecting these findings to the rest of your body.
Personalized Plan: Customized exercises and treatments are essential to getting your bowels to develop a regular pattern.
Finding the Right Therapist
Ensure your therapist is certified in pelvic health, like a Doctor of Physical Therapy with WCS and PRPC certifications.
Additional Strategies for Managing IBS
Dietary Adjustments
Incorporate fiber-rich foods
Avoid trigger foods like caffeine and spicy dishes
Stress Management
Practice mindfulness and meditation
Engage in regular physical activity
Prioritize sleep
Evidence-Based Success
Research Supports Pelvic PT
Studies show that pelvic physical therapy significantly improves IBS symptoms and overall gut function.
Expert Endorsements
Health organizations recognize pelvic PT as a viable treatment, emphasizing its non-invasive nature and effectiveness.
Conclusion
Irritable Bowel Syndrome doesn't have to control your life. Pelvic physical therapy offers a proven, accessible solution that addresses the root of the problem. Take the first step towards a happier, healthier you.
Written by:
Dr. Jana Richardson, PT, DPT, WCS, PRPC, CIDN
Dual Board Certified Pelvic Floor Therapist and Owner of Chicago Pelvic Health
Dr. Jana Richardson is a highly accomplished pelvic floor therapist with dual board certifications and extensive experience in treating complex pelvic floor dysfunctions. As the owner of Chicago Pelvic Health, Dr. Richardson is dedicated to providing personalized and effective care for her patients. With a Doctorate in Physical Therapy, and specialized certifications in Women’s Health and Pelvic Rehabilitation, Dr. Richardson is a leading expert in her field. She is also certified in Integrative Dry Needling, further enhancing her ability to offer comprehensive treatment plans. Dr. Richardson’s commitment to patient-centered care and her passion for helping individuals achieve optimal pelvic health make her an invaluable asset to the community.
Contact Information:
References:
Lacy, Brian E. PhD, MD, FACG1; Pimentel, Mark MD, FACG2; Brenner, Darren M. MD, FACG3; Chey, William D. MD, FACG4; Keefer, Laurie A. PhD5; Long, Millie D. MDMPH, FACG (GRADE Methodologist)6; Moshiree, Baha MD, MSc, FACG7. ACG Clinical Guideline: Management of Irritable Bowel Syndrome. The American Journal of Gastroenterology 116(1):p 17-44, January 2021. | DOI: 10.14309/ajg.0000000000001036
Suttor VP, Prott GM, Hansen RD, Kellow JE, Malcolm A. Evidence for pelvic floor dyssynergia in patients with irritable bowel syndrome. Dis Colon Rectum. 2010 Feb;53(2):156-60. doi: 10.1007/DCR.0b013e3181c188e8. PMID: 20087090.