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Reflexology in the management of encopresis and chronic constipation
Insights
Reflexology may effectively treat childhood encopresis (faecal incontinence) and chronic constipation. This study found increased bowel movements and reduced soiling in children after reflexology sessions.
Area of Science:
- Pediatrics
- Complementary Medicine
- Gastroenterology
Background:
- Encopresis, or faecal incontinence in children, is often linked to chronic constipation and stool withholding.
- Traditional treatments like enemas can cause distress for children.
- Exploring alternative therapies is crucial for improving patient outcomes and comfort.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the efficacy of reflexology as a treatment for encopresis and chronic constipation in children.
- To assess the impact of reflexology on bowel function and soiling incidents.
- To evaluate parental attitudes towards reflexology for pediatric constipation.
Main Methods:
- An observational study involving 50 children aged 3-14 with encopresis/chronic constipation.
- Children received six 30-minute reflexology sessions targeting the feet.
- Parental questionnaires tracked bowel movements, soiling patterns, and attitudes pre- and post-treatment.
Main Results:
- Forty-eight children completed the reflexology treatment protocol.
- A significant increase in the frequency of bowel motions was observed.
- The incidence of soiling episodes decreased notably among the participants.
Conclusions:
- Reflexology appears to be an effective intervention for managing encopresis and chronic constipation in children over a six-week period.
- Parents reported positive experiences and satisfaction with reflexology's effects.
- Reflexology offers a potentially beneficial, less distressing alternative for pediatric bowel management.
Abstract:
Encopresis or faecal incontinence in children is an extremely distressing condition that is usually secondary to chronic constipation/stool withholding. Traditional management with enemas may add to the child's distress. This study investigated the efficacy of treating patients with encopresis and chronic constipation with reflexology. An observational study was carried out of 50 children between three and 14 years of age who had a diagnosis of encopresis/chronic constipation. The children received six sessions of 30-minutes of reflexology to their feet. With the help of their parents they completed questionnaires on bowel motions and soiling patterns before, during and after the treatment. A further questionnaire was completed by parents pre and post treatment on their attitude towards reflexology. Forty-eight of the children completed the sessions. The number of bowel motions increased and the incidence of soiling decreased. Parents were keen to try the reflexology and were satisfied with the effect of reflexology on their child's condition. It appears that reflexology has been an effective method of treating encopresis and constipation over a six-week period in this cohort of patients.