Bowel & Gut Health

The pelvic floor muscles are vital for bowel control, helping manage gas and stool, and facilitating comfortable bowel movements. Dysfunction can significantly disrupt daily life. Pelvic floor physical therapy effectively addresses common bowel-related issues:

• Constipation and straining during bowel movements

• Gas or stool leakage (anal incontinence)

• Excessive toilet paper use

• Hemorrhoids and fissures

• Pain before, during, or after bowel movements

• Anal or rectal discomfort, itching, or burning

Common Causes Include:

• Medications causing constipation (opiates, mood stabilizers, contraceptives)

• Pelvic muscle dysfunction (tightness, weakness, poor coordination)

• Nerve damage from childbirth, chronic straining, or surgeries

• Gastrointestinal conditions like IBS, SIBO, Crohn’s, and ulcerative colitis

Key Facts:

• Constipation affects up to 28% of people

• Gastrointestinal distress impacts over 25% of Americans

• Up to 40% of postpartum women experience bowel urgency and incontinence

• Women over 65 are three times more prone to constipation than men

• IBS affects nearly 30% of the population

How We Help: At Healthy Pelvis PT, we address gastrointestinal and bowel-related symptoms through targeted pelvic floor therapy. Our therapists specialize in evaluating muscle tightness, weakness, and coordination, offering personalized treatments. Unlike general advice, specialized therapy may initially involve lengthening overly tight muscles before strengthening them.

What to Expect: During your initial appointment, we'll review your medical history and conduct a comprehensive pelvic examination, assessing posture, muscle health, and joint alignment. An optional, comfortable internal exam helps pinpoint specific muscle issues. Treatment begins immediately, using effective manual techniques tailored to your needs. Most patients notice substantial improvement in symptoms within the first few visits.