Irritable Bowel Syndrome

Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), sometimes referred to as spastic colon, is a common disorder that affects the large intestine (the colon) and can consist of cramping, abdominal pain, bloating, gas, and diarrhea and/or constipation. The exact cause of IBS isn’t known and is likely different for each individual, but there are often a combination of factors at play including muscle contractions in the colon, nervous system dysregulation, a history of severe infection, early life stress, and changes in gut microbes.

Pelvic health physical therapy can be a very beneficial part of a multidisciplinary team in the treatment of IBS. Therapy typically consists of assessing the pelvic floor musculature to make sure there is adequate ability to relax the pelvic floor to allow for easier bowel movements (if symptoms are more constipation dominant). Your therapist can also assess and address abdominal dysfunction and provide specific manual techniques to improve large intestine function.