Common Myths About Biofeedback Therapy for Constipation: What You Should Know?
Biofeedback therapy has emerged as an effective, non-invasive treatment for chronic constipation and various pelvic floor dysfunctions. However, many misconceptions still surround this innovative therapy, which may prevent people from considering it as a treatment option. Dr. Rupali Bandgar-Jankar, a leading gastrophysiologist and biofeedback specialist in Pune, India, sheds light on common myths about biofeedback therapy and clarifies what you should know if you’re considering it for constipation relief.
Myth #1: Biofeedback Therapy is Only for Severe Constipation
Truth: Biofeedback therapy can be useful for various levels of constipation severity. While it is commonly suggested for patients with chronic constipation who haven’t found relief with diet, medicines, or other treatments, it’s also useful for those with milder forms of constipation who have pelvic floor dysfunction. It trains patients to relax and coordinate their pelvic floor muscles, which is often key in managing constipation symptoms.
Myth #2: Biofeedback Therapy is Painful or Invasive
Truth: Biofeedback therapy is completely non-invasive and painless. The therapy involves placing sensors on the skin or using specialized equipment to monitor muscle activity. This helps patients to see real-time feedback on their muscle movements, allowing them to learn techniques to strengthen and coordinate their pelvic floor muscles effectively. Dr. Bandgar-Jankar emphasizes that this process is comfortable and relaxing for most patients.
Myth #3: Results from Biofeedback Therapy are Immediate
Truth: While many patients do start noticing progress within a few sessions, biofeedback therapy generally requires multiple sessions over a few weeks to achieve lasting results. The therapy involves learning and practicing muscle control, which takes time, effort, and dedication to become effective.
Myth #4: Biofeedback Therapy is the Same as Physical Therapy
Truth: Biofeedback therapy and physical therapy for the pelvic floor have some similarities, but they’re not the same. Biofeedback uses specialized equipment to provide patients with real-time information about their muscle activity, helping them identify and improve coordination issues that may contribute to constipation. Physical therapy, on the other hand, focuses on exercises and manual techniques to support muscles. Biofeedback therapy provides unique insights into muscle function that cannot be gained through exercises alone.
Myth #5: Only Older Adults Need Biofeedback Therapy
Truth: Constipation and pelvic floor dysfunction can affect individuals of all ages. Young adults, middle-aged individuals, and seniors alike may benefit from biofeedback therapy. Many lifestyle factors, such as prolonged sitting, stress, or dietary habits, can contribute to muscle coordination issues, making biofeedback suitable for anyone experiencing chronic constipation due to pelvic floor dysfunction.
Myth #6: Biofeedback Therapy Doesn't Work if You've Had Surgery
Truth: Biofeedback therapy can still be effective even if a patient has undergone surgery related to the digestive or pelvic area. In fact, many people turn to biofeedback as a post-surgical rehabilitation method to regain muscle control and improve bowel function. Dr. Bandgar-Jankar has helped numerous post-surgical patients enhance their quality of life through biofeedback therapy, making it a viable option for those looking to enhance bowel function after surgery.
Myth #7: Biofeedback Therapy Can't Treat Functional Constipation
Truth: Biofeedback therapy is often particularly recommended for functional constipation, especially when caused by pelvic floor dysfunction. Conditions such as dyssynergic defecation, where there’s improper coordination of pelvic floor muscles, respond well to biofeedback training. Research has shown that biofeedback can significantly improve symptoms in people with this type of constipation.
Myth #8: Anyone Can Conduct Biofeedback Therapy
Truth: Effective biofeedback therapy needs expertise in gastrointestinal physiology and biofeedback techniques. At Kaizen Gastro Care, under the care of an experienced biofeedback specialist like Dr. Rupali Bandgar-Jankar, patients receive individualized sessions that include proper guidance, monitored feedback, and personalized adjustments to ensure that they get the most from each session.
Conclusion:
Biofeedback therapy is a safe and helpful tool in treating constipation and pelvic floor dysfunction. By breaking down these common myths, we hope more people will understand its benefits and consider it as a potential treatment option. If you struggle with chronic constipation, especially if linked to pelvic floor issues, reach out to Dr. Rupali Bandgar-Jankar at Kaizen Gastro Care to learn if biofeedback therapy is right for you.