People sometimes consult chiropractors when they seek treatment options that are natural and drug-free. This is especially true if they are suffering from a condition that is more functional in nature and is not related to a disease condition. Bowel movements that are infrequent, difficult or painful to pass are usually not the result of disease. Constipation is a functional disorder for which chiropractic care may be sought.
A Holistic Philosophy
A holistic philosophy sees a symptom or health crisis in the context of the whole person. There is less focus solely on the condition and a greater emphasis on the overall workings of the interconnected systems of the body. This approach is embraced by many chiropractors and may be an especially effective approach to functional disorders such as chronic constipation.
Physical Interventions
There is little research on the effects of chiropractic adjustments on chronic constipation and case reports are scattered. One small study involving young children was published in the September 2008 issue of the journal, "Clinical Chiropractic." The results of that study showed that all three subjects demonstrated dramatic improvement with constipation problems. Some chiropractors utilize abdominal massage techniques to help stimulate bowel activity. Alternating applications of hot and cold packs over the abdomen may also help increase activity in the bowels.
Dietary Considerations
It is widely recognized that a low-fiber diet can contribute to constipation. After reviewing a patient's dietary habits, a chiropractor may recommend increasing consumption of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes and nuts. These foods are high in fiber and give greater bulk to the stools. Some fibers also bind with water to keep the stools soft and easier to pass. Though all dietary fibers help to increase stool bulk, a study published in "Preventive Medicine" in July 1987 suggests that wheat bran fiber may be superior to fruit and vegetable fiber as a bulking agent.
Lifestyle Issues
If the patient does not engage in regular exercise, or if she has a sedentary job, the chiropractor may have specific recommendations for increasing physical activity. Exercise speeds up the transit time of food through the digestive tract. This effect was noted in a study reported in the April, 2005 issue of the "Scandinavian Journal of Gastroenterology." Significant improvements were noted for sufferers of chronic constipation who engaged in a 12-week program of exercises including 30 minutes of daily walking.
Other Considerations
Constipation can in some cases be a secondary effect of a more serious health problem. For this reason, a chiropractor, like other health care providers, may wish to perform or order additional diagnostic tests before proceeding with treatment.
References
- "Clinical Chiropractic;" The Successful Chiropractic Care of Pediatric Patients with Chronic Constipation: A Case Series and Selective Review of the Literature; J Alcantara and D Mayer; September, 2008
- "Preventive Medicine;" Fiber, Stool Bulk and Bile Acid Output: Implications for Colon Cancer Risk; Ruth McPherson-Kay M.D., Ph.D., July 1987
- "Scandinavian Journal of Gastroenterology;" Effects of Regular Physical Activity on Defecation Pattern in Middle-Aged Patients Complaining of Chronic Constipation; A DeShryver, Y Keulemans, H Peters, et al; April 2005
