Constipation: It’s More Than just Inadequate Fiber Intake

Written by: Yuchin Chang, PT, DPT, OCS, CMTPT

Constipation is a such common phenomena that it’s almost a cliche to say ‘just have plenty of water and fiber!’   It is actually a little bit more complicated than that.

Constipation is defined as having bowel movements less than three times a week.  There are various reasons why people have constipation, ranging from side effects of medication, inactivity, inadequate fiber intake, and dehydration to having a hyperactive pelvic floor.

I remember the very first time I encountered an inquiry of constipation treatment from a friend’s friend.  At the time, I was a first year physical therapy student and did not have any idea about pelvic health.   The extent of my physical therapy knowledge of constipation was pretty much just ‘drink plenty of water and have lots of fibers.’  I remembered the response I got was – ‘I did all that. But I’m still constipated!’, which is often the case for most people.

What people do not realize is that constipation is a pelvic health issue and physical therapy may be able to help.   When people have constipation because of a hyperactive / tight pelvic floor, they often have significant abdominal discomfort and bloating with increased fiber intake.  Often, they turn to an over-the-counter laxative, which may disrupt the natural rhythm of the colon, and long-term use of the laxative can ironically cause more constipation!

A trained and experienced pelvic floor physical therapist can evaluate your pelvic girdle and provide an appropriate treatment plan if a person is having constipation due to a hyperactive pelvic floor.

If you would like more information, please call Professional Physical Therapy and Training at 973-270-7417. Our offices are located within the YMCA locations in Madison and Summit, NJ.  You do not need to be a member of the YMCA to visit with us.