Diet, Exercise and Physical Therapies for Chronic Constipation

Abstract

It is important to consider the type of chronic constipation such as slow transit type constipation or outlet obstruction. Diet and exercise therapies are the first choices for slow transit constipation. A high-fiber diet, lactic acid bacterium prod- ucts and fermented foods are recommended. Aerobic exercise is known to reduce the symptoms of constipation. On the other hand, physical therapies such as biofeedback and inner muscle training are effective for outlet obstruction. There are reports that show the efficacy of biofeedback therapies with balloon, electromyogram and manometry. Also, defecating po- sition is important for fecal evacuation.