Pain with bowel movement is an unpleasant experience that can result from a variety of health conditions and symptoms.
Common Causes Include:
- Constipation: A slowing of bowel movements passed. Straining during passing and abdominal pain are among the most common symptoms and may alternate with diarrhea.
- Diarrhea: Loose stools that often come with abdominal cramps and pain.
- Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS): A common disorder; symptoms include abdominal pain, constipation, and diarrhea. Though the cause is unknown, IBS has been diagnosed in almost 1 in 5 Americans.
- Proctitis: Inflammation of the lining of the rectum that makes it difficult and painful to have a bowel movement.
- Anal Fissures: Small tears in the lining of the anus, which can cause bleeding, itching, or pain during a bowel movement.
- Levator Ani Syndrome: A muscle-based pelvic pain due to chronically contracted pelvic muscles. Levator Ani Syndrome typically describes pain in the rectum or the bottom and back of the pelvis.
Common Risk Factors Include:
- Chronic Constipation
- Hemorrhoids
- Proctalgia Fugax
- Anal Fissures
This visual is an easy depiction of contracting muscles of the pelvic floor. It’s showing how contractions can make the physical openings smaller causing painful intercourse, constipation and many other functions that interact with the pelvic floor muscles.
Our treatment protocols aim to bring relief to the contracted or tightness occurring in the pelvic floor which can drastically improve many problem areas in the body.
Treating Pain with Bowel Movement
In some cases, pain with bowel movement problems can be solved with simple lifestyle changes such as diet. Sometimes other treatments are necessary, including traditional medications and therapies.
We’re here to help our patients through a combination of holistic treatments, protocols, and physical therapies. Whether you’re experiencing pain with bowel movements or another issue, we’re here to listen to your concerns and plan the right course of action.
