Guest Expert Blog: “Pelvic Floor Therapy for Constipation Relief: The Missing Link”
Understanding Constipation and Pelvic Floor Dysfunction
We are thrilled to feature another guest post on our blog from another brilliant pelvic floor physical therapist, Dr. Rachel Daof, PT, DPT Owner of The Pelvic Model based in Northeast Los Angeles. She will be providing us with a deep dive into how we can better understand constipation and pelvic floor dysfunction. Whether you’re experiencing this yourself or supporting a loved one, this post offers valuable insights and solutions to help navigate constipation with confidence and comfort.
Constipation is a common yet often overlooked condition that affects people of all ages. While occasional constipation is normal, chronic constipation—defined as fewer than three bowel movements per week or difficulty passing stool—can significantly impact quality of life. According to research from the American Gastroenterological Association, 16% of adults overall experience chronic constipation, with prevalence increasing to 33% in those over 60.
Many individuals try to manage constipation through diet, hydration, fiber supplements, and over-the-counter laxatives on their own. Getting expert guidance on these aspects may be a missing piece to the puzzle. However, if these strategies aren’t enough—or if greater progress is needed—the pelvic floor may be playing a contributing role, as pelvic floor dysfunction is a commonly overlooked factor in chronic constipation.
How the Pelvic Floor Affects Bowel Movements
The pelvic floor consists of a group of muscles that support the bladder, bowel, and reproductive organs. These muscles play a crucial role in bowel function, helping to control the release of stool. However, when the pelvic floor muscles become too tight, uncoordinated, and/or weakened, they can impair the ability to pass stool efficiently, leading to straining, incomplete evacuation, and discomfort.
Signs that constipation may be related to pelvic floor dysfunction include:
Straining or excessive effort during bowel movements
A sensation of incomplete evacuation
Difficulty relaxing the anal sphincter
Pelvic pain or discomfort when passing stool
A need to splint (press on the perineum or vaginal wall) to aid in stool evacuation
Chronic constipation can lead to pelvic floor dysfunction due to repeated straining, while an already dysfunctional pelvic floor can worsen constipation by preventing complete bowel movements. Pelvic floor therapy addresses both causes, helping to break the cycle of dysfunction.
How Pelvic Floor Therapy Helps with Constipation
At The Pelvic Model in Highland Park, Los Angeles, we specialize in pelvic floor physical therapy to treat constipation and bowel dysfunction. Our approach includes:
1. Pelvic Floor Muscle Retraining
A pelvic floor therapist can assess muscle function and determine whether tightness, weakness, or poor coordination is contributing to constipation. Using manual therapy, biofeedback training, and neuromuscular re-education, we help retrain the muscles to properly engage and relax for easier bowel movements.
2. Visceral Mobilization for Gut Health
Visceral manipulation is a gentle hands-on therapy that improves the mobility, motility, and circulation of abdominal organs and throughout the GI tract. This technique can enhance digestion, relieve bloating, and support regular bowel movements.
3. Bowel Retraining and Toileting Techniques
Many people unknowingly develop poor toileting habits that contribute to constipation. As part of therapy, we educate patients on:
Proper positioning for bowel movements (such as using a squatty potty)
Diaphragmatic breathing techniques to relax the pelvic floor
Coordinating pelvic floor relaxation with the urge to defecate
Avoiding straining to prevent worsening muscle dysfunction
4. Addressing Lifestyle Factors
While pelvic floor dysfunction is often a key contributor to constipation, nutrition, hydration, and lifestyle habits also play a role. We work alongside registered dietitians, like Katie Chapmon Nutrition, to ensure a comprehensive approach to constipation relief. Check out their blog Nutritional support for chronic constipation featured on our blog here! We truly believe that pelvic floor therapy and dietary adjustments together provide a well-rounded, effective solution.
When to Seek Pelvic Floor Therapy for Constipation
If you’ve tried dietary changes, hydration, and fiber supplements but are still experiencing chronic constipation, it may be time to consider pelvic floor physical therapy. A pelvic floor therapist can assess whether muscle dysfunction is preventing complete bowel movements and create a personalized treatment plan.
At The Pelvic Model in Highland Park, Los Angeles, we help patients regain proper bowel function through evidence-based pelvic floor therapy. If chronic constipation is affecting your quality of life, pelvic floor therapy may be the missing link.
Find Lasting Relief from Constipation
Pelvic floor dysfunction is an often-overlooked cause of chronic constipation, but with the right therapy, you can restore normal bowel function and reduce reliance on laxatives. If you're struggling with constipation and suspect pelvic floor dysfunction may be involved, The Pelvic Model is here to help.
Interested in speaking more with us about pelvic floor therapy?
Book an appointment today with Dr. Rachel at the Pelvic Model and take the first step toward lasting relief.
If you are looking for further nutrition support, schedule a complimentary Meet + Greet session with us at Katie Chapmon Nutrition. We look forward to finding individualized solutions to fit your needs.
Published: April 7th, 2025
