Are there any other treatments for constipation?

    Last Updated: October 25, 2023

    Assuming a squatting (rather than sitting) position, such that the knees are bent sharply, can improve the ease of defecation.[1][2][1]

    Some studies have found that increasing physical activity is beneficial for constipation,[3][4] though other studies have reported no effect.[5][6]

    In cases of constipation due to a functional defecation disorder, biofeedback therapy can train a person to coordinate the muscles involved in passing stool, improving outcomes.[7][8]

    References

    1. ^Modi RM, Hinton A, Pinkhas D, Groce R, Meyer MM, Balasubramanian G, Levine E, Stanich PPImplementation of a Defecation Posture Modification Device: Impact on Bowel Movement Patterns in Healthy Subjects.J Clin Gastroenterol.(2019-03)
    2. ^Dov SikirovComparison of straining during defecation in three positions: results and implications for human healthDig Dis Sci.(2003 Jul)
    3. ^De Schryver AM, Keulemans YC, Peters HP, Akkermans LM, Smout AJ, De Vries WR, van Berge-Henegouwen GPEffects of regular physical activity on defecation pattern in middle-aged patients complaining of chronic constipation.Scand J Gastroenterol.(2005-Apr)
    4. ^Sayed A Tantawy, Dalia M Kamel, Walid Kamal Abdelbasset, Hany M ElgoharyEffects of a proposed physical activity and diet control to manage constipation in middle-aged obese womenDiabetes Metab Syndr Obes.(2017 Dec 14)
    5. ^Meshkinpour H, Selod S, Movahedi H, Nami N, James N, Wilson AEffects of regular exercise in management of chronic idiopathic constipation.Dig Dis Sci.(1998-Nov)
    6. ^Chin A Paw MJ, van Poppel MN, van Mechelen WEffects of resistance and functional-skills training on habitual activity and constipation among older adults living in long-term care facilities: a randomized controlled trial.BMC Geriatr.(2006-Jul-31)
    7. ^Rao SS, Patcharatrakul TDiagnosis and Treatment of Dyssynergic Defecation.J Neurogastroenterol Motil.(2016-Jul-30)
    8. ^Moore D, Young CJA systematic review and meta-analysis of biofeedback therapy for dyssynergic defaecation in adults.Tech Coloproctol.(2020-09)