Physical Therapy for Colorectal Problems

Anorectal Pain and Levator Ani Syndrome

Provide evaluation and treatment of the muscles with biofeedback, soft tissue/muscle stretching and msucle stimulation for apin relief.  Educaiton and training about pelvic floor muscle function with emphasis on relaxation, correcting postures and body mechanics that may aggrevate pain.

Constipaion and Incomplete Emptying

Education on the role of the pelvic floor muscle functions when emptying the bowels.  Treatment sessions focus on teaching coordination, relaxation then strengthening of muscles.  The also include instruction in proper toileting postures and behavioral activities that can affect this condition.  Biofeedback helps you in seeing how your muscles are working.  The role of the pelvic floor muscles to support and maintain the anal-recal angle is key in good bowel continence.

Fecal Incontinence

Education and trianing in proper habits (diet, toilet positioning and use of muscles for control of bowel movements or gas).  Individualized pelvic floor exercise instruction based on assessment of your muscles is provided.  Treatment can include biofeedback, a progressvie exercise program and/or pelvic msucle electrical stimulation to retrain the muscles for essential control and support of the internal organs.

Irritable Bowel Syndrome

IBS is a disturbance of colon function characterised by abdominal discomfort, bloating, and abnormal bowel movements.  It can have constipation dominance or diarrhea dominance or alternate between the two.  "Irritable" means that the nerve endings in the lining of the bowel are unusually active.  The bowel is more or less responsive to what might be normal events such as passing gas or having a bowel movement.  Managing IBS is multifaceted.  Proper rest, diet, and exercise can help reduce stress and positively influence IBS.  Physical therapy will help you learn massage and relaxation techniques and provide you with diet and activity quidance.  Your physician may also be able to recomment medication that can help.

Sacroiliac, tailbone, hip and low back pain 

Assessment for joint mobility and stability, flexibility, myofacsial mobility, muscle strength, movement patterns and psoture are performed.  Treatment with manual therapy and therapeutic exercises and a home exercise program is provided.  These conditions often occur with colorectal problems.