How Physical Therapy Could Help Your Gut Issues
Do you find yourself struggling with regular bowel movements or experiencing difficulties in controlling them? Trust me, you are not alone out there.
Successfully having a bowel movement or maintaining control over it involves the coordination of various muscles. This process relies heavily on the pelvic floor muscles as well as the muscles surrounding the hips. Depending on your specific condition, these muscles may need to either relax or strengthen to ensure proper control.
Did you know physical therapy could help?
Physical therapists (PT) are trained specialists of the musculoskeletal system. We have extensive knowledge and training in the ability to assess individuals with digestive issues. A PT can provide manual therapy techniques, prescribe a personalized exercise program to restore the alignment and function of your pelvic floor, and assist with recovery from things like pregnancy or hernia surgery.
Specific techniques that target digestive health include:
- Abdominal massage
- Breathing exercises
- Posture correction
- Core strengthening
- Pelvic floor therapy
Physical therapists are here to help you with your gut issues—whatever those may be. If you’re experiencing ongoing digestive discomfort, especially symptoms like constipation, bloating, or acid reflux, physical therapy may be beneficial for you.
Melissa Albosta, D.P.T., A.T./A.T.C, is a physical therapist with MyMichigan Rehabilitation Services in Saginaw. Melissa has extensive experience and expertise in areas of therapy including manual therapy sports medicine, orthopedics, vestibular/balance dysfunction, spine and pelvic health.
