Abdominal massage in the management of chronic constipation for children with disability

A service development initiative was conducted to assess the impact of abdominal massage on chronic constipation in children with physical disabilities and learning needs. Twenty-five parents engaged in an abdominal massage training programme led by a specialist health visiting team (children's disability). Participants were asked to carry out abdominal massage for a total of 20 minutes per day. Quality of life indicators, descriptions of bowel movements, use of laxative medication and contact with health care services were recorded by parents. Costs and professional contact time with families was calculated. Results reported a wide range of quality of Life improvements including relief in symptoms of constipation (87.5%), reduction in laxative medication (58%) and improved dietary intake (41%). Qualitative data indicated positive experiences described by parents which included enhanced parent-child relationships.